Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 November 2022
400. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the current position regarding Finglas Citizens Information Centre, including current opening hours; if there have recently been any changes in the service provided, or whether there are any planned changes, given the vital service offered to the people of Finglas by Citizens Information; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56578/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Citizens Information Board (CIB) is a statutory agency tasked with providing information, advocacy, and advice to citizens. These important services are delivered by eight independent regional Citizen Information Service (CIS) companies, that operate a national network of Citizens Information Centres, including Dublin North CIS, which encompasses Finglas.
It is important to note that, by law, the CIB is charged with independently overseeing the delivery of its services under its remit. Similarly, each CIS is an independent limited company governed by a voluntary board of directors. These eight CIS companies make decisions independently on the delivery of services in their own regions.
My Department has been informed that Finglas Citizen Information Centre provides the service at the following times: the reception desk is open from Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4pm. Phone and email queries for the Finglas area are dealt with Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday 9 a.m. to 4pm.
A drop-in clinic is available at the centre from Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 12.40 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and also on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12.40pm.
Appointments can also be arranged for those that require them. There are currently no planned changes to any of these opening times.
Additionally, the Citizens Information Phone Service (CIPS) is a nationwide service that can be reached on 0818 07 4000, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 8.p.m.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
