Departmental Offices

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 May 2012

Tuesday, 22 May 2012

Ceisteanna (268)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

357 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if and when a public office at which the community welfare officer can deal with enquiries can be provided at Naas, County Kildare in view of the considerable hardship caused to local persons who currently cannot meet the relevant officer; if some clarification can be given as to why the provision of such an office has not been honoured in view of the agreement entered into more than three years ago; when such an office is now likely to open; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25027/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Joan Burton)

A number of options for a public office for the community welfare service in Naas were explored by the HSE. With the recent integration of the community welfare service into my Department the provision of this service in Naas is being examined in the context of the new integrated service and the development of the National Employment and Entitlements Service.

At present, access to community welfare services for the Naas area is available through a postal and a free phone service. The free phone service is available Monday to Thursday between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 12 noon and on Friday mornings from 11.00 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. for emergencies. Community welfare service staff covering the Naas area are continuing to provide the full range of outreach services including taking referrals from other services and making home visits.