Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There has been an expansion of demand for the service. The recent enhanced communications around additional needs mean many more people are applying and receiving assistance. That also reflects the general situation around energy pricing and inflation. Prior to that, the service had moved online for many people, many of whom now access payments online. I take the Deputy’s point that in some instances that is not always possible. I know the Minister for Social Protection is working on this to get the balance right between local access and facilitating people to apply as seamlessly as they can.

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