Seanad debates

Tuesday, 25 March 2003

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2003: Second Stage (Resumed).

 

I want to bring to the Minister's attention a matter which should not be an issue in the Department. The social welfare officers we contact by telephone are, in so far as is possible, courteous, helpful and understanding. They try to assist people who have difficulty applying for allowances. However, the field officers who go out into the community and carry out reviews are callous. I can provide the Minister with examples, if she so wishes, which can be checked out. They seem to be on a mission to take as many people as possible out of the schemes. That is a tragedy and it contrasts with what happens in the social welfare offices and with the assistance given by other social welfare officers.

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