Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
1278. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of the reopening of the Citizens' Information Centre in Wicklow Town; if a decision has been reached by her Department regarding the necessary funding for this vital service to the community; and to provide a proposed timeframe for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41356/22]
View answerThe Citizens Information Board (CIB) is the statutory body with responsibility for the Citizens Information Service (CIS). CIB provides funding to eight CIS companies that operate a national network of Citizens Information Centres.
Each CIS is a limited company overseen by a board of directors and makes decisions independently on the delivery of services in their regions. Decisions regarding the delivery of services in Wicklow Town are a matter for the Board of the South Leinster CIS.
I am advised that South Leinster CIS made the decision to discontinue services in their Wicklow town office from March 2020 due to health and safety concerns. An alternative outreach office space has recently been identified in Wicklow town and the Citizens Information Board is continuing to engage with South Leinster CIS with a view to progressing its use to meet local needs.
Citizens Information Services continue to be available in County Wicklow in offices in both Arklow and Bray. Arklow CIC is open for drop in callers on Tuesdays and appointments are also available on other days. Bray CIC is open for drop in callers on Mondays and Thursdays and appointments otherwise available. Callers can ring the offices five days a week with queries.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
