Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
2712. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she has advocated that the Citizens' Information Board provide independent prevention advice on gambling addiction especially in young persons in line with the information it provides in relation to alcohol and drugs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32673/19]
View answerThe Citizens Information Board (CIB) under the aegis of my Department, is responsible for supporting the provision of information, advice (including money advice and budgeting) and advocacy on a wide range of public and social services.
The Citizens Information Board delivers on its remit by provision of information and advice through three main channels:
- the regional network of 8 Citizens Information Services (CIS) which provides a face- to-face impartial and confidential service to the public;
- the Citizens Information Phone Service (CIPS), which operates Mon-Fri 9am to 8pm, at 0761 07 4000;
- and the Citizens Information website (www.citizensinformation.ie) which provides a wide range of information for citizens
CIB also publishes advocacy, research and social policy reports highlighting issues of concern to users of social services.
My Department does not prescribe content in respect of information provided by the Citizens Information Board on the range of public and social services available. Currently, information is not specifically provided on gambling addiction as the HSE’s Addiction Services have been traditionally funded to treat problematic drug and alcohol use. However, I am aware that some cases of problematic gambling have been provided with treatment in recent years. On that basis, the Citizens Information Board has undertaken to consult with the Department of Health about the publication of more targeted material on gambling addiction on the citizensinformation.ie website.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
