Seán Ryan
Ceist:20 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will introduce and circulate a charter of claimants rights to protect the rights of social welfare recipients.
Written Answers. - Charter of Claimants' Rights
The rights of social welfare claimants are enshrined in and protected by legislation. In 1981 I introduced the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act which consolidated in one Act all of the legislation relating to the social welfare schemes. I am currently engaged in a programme to update and consolidate the various regulations made under the Acts. This will assist people in establishing their entitlements under the various social welfare schemes.
I am also taking steps to improve the decision-making process for social welfare claims. The level of information provided to clients at the initial decision stage is being improved. The Deputy will also be aware of the recent far-reaching changes which I made in the area of social welfare appeals by setting up a new fully independent and integrated social welfare appeals office. In the final instance social welfare legislation provides specifically for recourse to the High Court where a point of law emerges in relation to any appeal. I am satisfied that this structure provides an adequate protection to claimants and that it ensures that their claims are dealt with fairly, equitably and in accordance with the law.
I have also undertaken a major programme to improve the delivery of the social welfare services with special emphasis on the provision of a more localised and effective service with easier access for clients. I am committed to a programme of modernising and improving accommodation and facilities for social welfare clients around the country with a view to providing an accessible and dignified service to them.
In addition, I am strengthening the Department's links with voluntary organisations and community based groups in the development of social policy and the provision of services. A charter to set out a framework for partnership between the State and voluntary activity will be drawn up by the Government and a White Paper outlining the Government's proposals in this important area will be prepared.
My Department's information service provides wide ranging and comprehensive information to clients on all aspects of the social welfare system. The information service has been substantially improved in recent years and the development of a localised and self-sufficient information service forms part of my plans for improved delivery of the schemes. I want to ensure that in addition to having their rights protected by law, social welfare claimants have the best possible information service to inform them of their rights.
These developments constitute the best protection for the rights of social welfare clients.