Ms Helen Faughnan:

In response to Deputy Funchion's comments, I am disappointed with the views on the service that people in Kilkenny are receiving. While there are issues, there are approximately 128 people in receipt of increased payments in the country. We try to ensure that there is a consistent approach throughout the country, although each officer would have discretion in his or her own right. I suppose the officers are balancing the need of the customer with a need to ensure that there is value for money for the taxpayer, who is paying for these various supplements. I will take the matter up with the divisional manager in that area in the context of looking at the position with regard to some of the payments.

In terms of point of contact, the Department operates a special enquiry line for Deputies with direct contact names, e-mail and phone numbers for every area of the Department, including for each division. We will be reissuing the details for new Deputies shortly. If there is a particular issue, it is best for the Deputy to raise it through that forum in the first instance.

It depends as well on the needs of the actual person. Some people do have a deposit available to them. Others may not, particularly if they are coming from emergency accommodation. Generally, what would happen in those circumstances is that the local community welfare officer would be part of the homeless action team in the area. The team would have case conferences to see what people's needs are and to try to make whatever payments are necessary. Again, if the Deputy is aware of particular cases, we might have a conversation about them offline.

A question was raised about people going to RAS or HAP in respect of furniture.

Generally, it is the responsibility of the landlord.