Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2007
457 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the job of community welfare officer is being transferred to his Department; if the CWO will be able to continue to use their personal service, flexibility and discretion as they play an important role dealing with persons at risk in society; the arrangements made for these officers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11300/07]
View answerIn February 2006 as part of its reform of the Health Sector, the Government decided to transfer certain functions from the Health Service Executive to my Department. Arising from that decision, administration of the supplementary welfare allowance (SWA) scheme, as well as certain other functions, will be transferred to my Department.
The SWA scheme is currently administered by some 700 Community Welfare Officers (CWOs), 59 superintendents and other staff within the Community Welfare Service of the HSE. The transfer of functions will not change the role of the CWOs who will remain community based and, in addition to providing financial supports to individuals, will continue to provide key information, advice, advocacy and referral links between agencies. There will be no loss of flexibility, discretion or personal service on the part of CWOs.
The implementation of the programme will be carefully managed to ensure that continuity of the SWA scheme and related services is maintained. A programme of communication and consultation with all the interests involved have commenced and there will be ongoing dialogue with all shareholders as the integration programme is implemented.
