Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 March 2023
450. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Social Protection in relation to the closure of a centre (details supplied), the reason this happened when there were no cost issues; the reason the Citizens' Information Board did not buy the premises when the landlord wanted to sell or rent alternative premises; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15007/23]
View answer451. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will arrange a meeting with the CEO and Chair of the Citizens' Information Board to discuss the closure of a centre (details supplied). [15008/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 450 and 451 together.
The Citizens Information Board (CIB) is a statutory body under the aegis of the Department of Social Protection (DSP), with responsibility for the Citizens Information Service (CIS).
CIB provides funding to eight independent regional CIS companies that operate the national network of Citizens Information Centres (CICs).
It is important to note that, under legislation, the CIB is charged with independently overseeing the delivery of its services under its remit. Similarly, each CIS is a 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. Each company is responsible for all matters and decisions relating to its staff and operations.
Any operational decisions in the CIS are therefore a matter for CIB and the CIS independent Boards of Directors, as Minister I cannot direct them regarding operational decisions. Dublin South CIS is the independent company with sole responsibility for the provision of information, advice, and advocacy services in Rathmines.
In relation to the closure of the Citizen Information Centre in Rathmines, I have been informed by CIB that Dublin South CIS had to vacate this office space at the end of May 2022, as the landowner had sold the premises, and Dublin South CIS were unable to source an alternative, affordable premises in the Rathmines area.
CIB has also informed me that Dublin South CIS remains committed to delivering face to face services and Citizens Information services are available at the following nearby locations:
- Liberties CIC, 90 Meath St, Dublin 8. Reception desk open Monday to Friday – 9.30am to 1 pm and 2pm to 4.30pm, appointments will be offered as required.
- Dublin 12 & 6w CIC, 8 Sundrive Road, Dublin 12. Open for drop-in Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings 9:30am to 12.30pm.
- Carmelite CIC, 56 Aungier St, Dublin 2, Drop-in Clinic Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 am to 12pm.
- Appointments at these services can also be facilitated for customers who may require them.
