Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 September 2022
381. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection the way that she will ensure that the Citizens Information Board remains a quality service for individuals given the recent structural staffing and volunteer changes in the organisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44658/22]
View answer382. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection the input and oversight that she has had on the new Citizens Information Board volunteer strategy given her Department’s responsibility for this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44659/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 381 and 382 together.
The Citizens Information Board (CIB) is a statutory body tasked with providing information, advocacy and advice to citizens. These important services are delivered by the eight independent Regional Citizen Information Service (CIS) companies.
The CIB provides funding to the eight CIS companies that operate a national network of Citizens Information Centres. It is important to note that the CIB is charged with independently overseeing the delivery of the services under its remit. Similarly, each CIS is an independent limited company governed by a voluntary board of directors. These eight CIS companies make decisions independently on the delivery of services in their own regions.
I understand that the CIS volunteer strategy, was developed by the independent Regional CIS Companies and is an operational matter and, as Minister, I cannot direct the CIB or the CIS companies in such matters. I have written to the CIB requesting that it provides me with information on the volunteer strategy and the implementation of the strategy by the CIS companies. I expect to receive this in the near future.
The CIS is a trusted source of information, advice and advocacy, with a long tradition of volunteering and I have been assured by the CIB that the contribution of volunteers continues to be highly valued in this regard. I have been informed that CIB is urgently engaging with the regional companies to discuss the volunteer issue and how best to progress the continued return of volunteers.
In addition, CIB has announced that an independent review of the volunteer programme will be undertaken as soon as possible. The review will engage with staff and volunteers of the eight CIS companies as well as their boards to review the volunteer programme and ensure that it remains fit-for-purpose and that volunteering in the Citizens Information Service companies is a rewarding role.
