Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Jan 1996

Vol. 460 No. 3

Written Answers. - Citizens' Information Service.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

25 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Social Welfare the plans, if any, he has to assist in the further development and co-ordination of a citizens' information service which will act independently on the statutory sector in providing information and advice on social welfare-related matters on a confidential basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1288/96]

Minister for Social Welfare (Proinsias De Rossa)

I believe that the further development of the independent information sector is an essential step towards ensuring that people can obtain comprehensive information relating to their statutory entitlements and can be advised and assisted when the need arises to access the wide range of services, benefits and supports now available to them.

The Deputy will be aware that responsibility for the National Social Service Board was transferred to my Department in June of last year. The NSSB is an independent body directly involved in the provision of information through its network of over 80 citizens' information centres and it also provides training and supports to a variety of other organisations. Almost 290 organisations throughout the country now make use of the NSSB information files as the basis for their own information, advice and advocacy services. I recently provided funds to enable the NSSB to computerise their information files and to provide the necessary equipment to ensure that this information can be accessed at local level.

My Department also works closely with many other voluntary organisations providing welfare rights and information services. Supports provided in recent years include financial assistance towards the cost of developing information services and also joint training seminars for staff and volunteers on social welfare matters.

The further development and co-ordination of independent information services will continue to be examined in consultation with the NSSB and other relevant organisations in the coming year.