Vol. 541 No. 2
825 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the plans he has to provide a translation service to the local social welfare information offices in communities where refugees are being housed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22341/01]
Because of the increasing number of non-nationals looking for information and other services from my Department, the need for translation facilities in my Department's offices is increasing.
To address the translation needs in local offices a number of pilot projects are being developed. One of these involves training staff locally in certain core languages to provide an on the spot translation service. A second approach involves providing a readily accessible translation service. In this instance, the information services in my Department have made arrangements with a company to provide a translation service. The company in question provides a quick and efficient translation service over the phone. It is intended to extend the translation pilot scheme to a second office shortly.
Evaluation of the service will be conducted to establish what is the most efficient and effective way to provide this service so that appropriate arrangements can be made whenever they are required. It is my objective to ensure that my Department delivers the highest quality service to all its customers and that the special needs of refugees and other categories are effectively addressed.
