Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I too thank Deputy Willie O'Dea for giving us the opportunity to talk on this very important matter this evening. People with mortgage and financial problems relied on MABS. The local offices provided really valuable help and service to vulnerable people at pivotal times in their lives. The same is true of the Citizens Information centres, dealing with all the new rules and regulations for social welfare payments. They always gave prompt and accurate information to vulnerable people. How does the Minister expect that reducing the number of centres or companies from 93 to 16 will provide a service to people in rural areas? I say without fear of contradiction if this happens the rural areas will be worst affected. Reconfiguration of services means reduction of service. No one ever complained about the service from MABS or the CICs.

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