Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Sherlock for raising this matter again. I would prefer not to put amendments on reports into legislation. That is my first point. When I say I will do a report, I will do it. Deputy Kerrane will agree with that. If I say I will do a report, I will do it, and I did do it last year.

Like many Deputy across the House, I realise the important service provided by community welfare officers. Members will be aware from last night that a full-time community welfare office is located in all Intreo offices nationwide from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, and in addition, community welfare officers remain available to attend clinics. They can talk to people over the phone and, where needed, they can also arrange to visit a person's house by appointment. We are genuinely doing everything we can to facilitate and help people. A client does not have to attend the office in person to make a claim or to make an inquiry about a claim. If it is more convenient for them, a client can call the community welfare service freefone line. A case can also be escalated if urgent local action is required, such as an immediate cheque payment. Where it is clear that a person has an immediate need, every effort is made to ensure he or she receives the payment on the same day. The delivery of a locally based community welfare service will continue to remain a key aspect of the service. That will not change. I am happy to do the report.

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