Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2022
481. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to any changes that have occurred to the operational processes of Citizens Information services across the State; if she will advise if these services will continue to utilise volunteer staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26395/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Citizens Information Board (CIB) is the statutory body with responsibility for the Citizens Information Service (CIS). CIB provides funding to eight CIS companies that operate a national network of Citizens Information Centres.
Each CIS is a limited company overseen by a board of directors and makes decisions independently on the delivery of services in their regions. Decisions regarding the delivery of services are therefore entirely a matter for the respective Boards of these eight CIS companies.
Volunteers have not provided an information provision role in Citizens Information Services for over two years. The updates and changes to information, advice and advocacy that have taken place during the past two years have been unprecedented.
My Department therefore understands that CIB and the CIS have set up a Volunteer Strategy Working Group, which is currently working on proposals regarding the future role of volunteers in the Citizens Information Services. Recommendations from this group will inform CIB and CIS of the most suitable way to re-engage volunteers to support the services and deliver information, advice, and advocacy to the public.
The future role of volunteers is an operational matter for the respective CIS companies and not a matter for Ministerial decision.
