Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It is really welcome and I welcome the income limits that are there as well. I welcome the advertisements, the fact that awareness is being raised of what is available and that it is available to workers as well as those who rely on social welfare.

I asked previously that putting this online be looked at because I came across a lone parent in her late 40s who had worked all her life. She is in that school situation whereby she has to sign on for the summer months. It was difficult for her. She said she could not go to her local community welfare officer because she would feel embarrassed and ashamed. She should not feel like that but we know, for some, that is how they would feel. Online access would be very important and make a difference.

On accessing the community welfare officers, the previous walk-in was important and is a loss because in some cases the Intreo centre is not in a person's town. He or she has to travel and that causes difficulties. That should be looked at.

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