Vol. 569 No. 5
22 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has satisfied herself that social welfare recipients are given adequate information on their entitlements; if she will take action to ensure that recipients get better quality information; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18065/03]
The provision of comprehensive information in a clear and simple manner is an essential element in the delivery of social welfare services. The objective of my Department's information policy is to ensure that all citizens are made aware of their entitlements under a broad range of social insurance, social assistance and other supports and are kept informed of changes and improvements as they occur. I am satisfied that that objective is being met.
My Department directs information to citizens on new schemes and services through advertising, using an appropriate mix of national and provincial media, and through information leaflets, fact sheets, posters and direct mailshots. Selective use is also made of freephone telephone services to provide information on new schemes and services and at particular times of the year, such as budget time. In addition, my Department's schemes and services are publicised on RTE's teletext service, Aertel, and on its website at www.welfare.ie
In relation to information products, my Department produces a comprehensive range of information leaflets and booklets covering each social welfare payment. These are widely available across the country from social welfare local offices, citizens information centres and many other local organisations. In the past two months alone, seven new and revised editions of information leaflets have been published as well as the 2003 edition of our main information booklet, Guide to Social Welfare Services, a copy of which I sent to each Member of the Oireachtas. The new booklet has been distributed to information providers around the country, including voluntary and community groups.
My Department also works closely with voluntary and community organisations involved in an information-giving role. A number of such organisations receive funding on an annual basis towards the cost of providing welfare rights and information services for their targets groups. Customer panels and customer surveys are among the mechanisms we use to consult with our customers in relation to the services we provide and to tailor the delivery of services, including information services, to meet the needs identified. The findings of these surveys are, in the main, very positive and show a high overall satisfaction rating with the services provided.
Comhairle is the national information agency coming under the aegis of my Department with responsibility for supporting the provision of independent information, advice and other supports to all citizens, including those with disabilities. Comhairle supports a network of some 85 citizens' information centres whose role is to provide information to members of the public on all social services.
