Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 March 2004
619 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the changes that will take place in the community welfare service; her plans to move the community welfare offices in the Department of Health and Children to her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8627/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe supplementary welfare allowance scheme is subject to my general direction and control. It is administered by the health boards' community welfare service on behalf of my Department. The service also has other functions within the health boards' community care programmes.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is being reviewed by an interdepartmental working group as part of my Department's series of expenditure reviews. It is a fundamental appraisal of the scheme aimed primarily at improving customer service and administrative efficiency.
An advisory group, comprising representatives of the regional health boards, has been established to consider various supplementary welfare allowance policy issues. It will also consider the implications of the health service reform programme for the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
The desirability of transferring the community welfare service in part or wholly to my Department will be assessed in the light of the above evaluations. My primary objective is to enhance the service provided to those who avail of the supports in a manner that maximises their effectiveness and efficiency.
