The primary objective of my Department's information policy is to ensure that all citizens are made aware of their entitlements and that they are kept informed of changes and improvements in schemes and services as they occur. In relation to older people, the Department produces a comprehensive range of information leaflets and booklets. For example, a booklet entitled "Checklist for Pensioners" (SW10) which sets out the benefits for which a pensioner may qualify, has recently been updated and is currently being distributed to all Social Welfare local offices, and Citizens Information Centres. This booklet, along with other related information leaflets and claim forms, is available from the Department's LoCall Leaflet Line at 1890 20 23 25.
The Citizens Information Board, (CIB) which comes under the aegis of my Department, produced a booklet called "Information Age – How to access Senior Citizen Benefits" as part of an initiative to meet the information needs of older people. The booklet contains brief information on retirement, health services, income and support, and safety and security. Its primary purpose is to direct older people to sources of information, advice and support. In 2007, this booklet was sent to all Social Welfare pensioners and was promoted in a short media campaign. It is available through Citizens Information Centres, the Department's local offices and Health Centres. The Citizens Information Board also provides information through some 260 Citizen Information Centres and other outlets around the country, through a phone service which operates from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday, and the website www.citizensinformation.ie.
The Department operates a network of approximately 130 local and branch offices throughout the country. Each Local Office has officers who are dedicated to providing information and are available to explain supports and services to people. This locally based service is supported by a central Information Unit which operates a LoCall information line (1890 66 22 44) which customers may call for information and guidance on their entitlements. In addition, information on all our schemes and services is available on the Department's website, www.welfare.ie. Information leaflets can be downloaded from this site or a request can be made on-line for a booklet to be posted out.
As well as attending exhibitions and seminars throughout the country promoting information on social welfare rights and entitlements, presentations and talks are given by staff directly to various groups of people approaching pension age. The Department has consulted widely with stakeholder groups representing older people and works closely with voluntary and community organisations involved in an information giving role. I am satisfied that the Department is taking all necessary steps to ensure that older people are made aware of their entitlements.