Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 73: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if it is a requirement that applicants for social welfare benefits fill in the boxes giving persons a choice between Mr. and Ms. on their forms; the purpose of this question and the actions taken by her in the event of this box not being completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28802/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Customers applying to my Department for benefits or payments are asked to indicate their preferred title either by choosing one of 'Mr.', 'Mrs.' or 'Ms.' or by specifying their preferred title in writing. The Irish language versions of application forms offer a corresponding choice in respect of Irish titles.

The Department's customer service standards are set out in its Customer Charter and they include a commitment to serving its customers in a fair, courteous and timely manner. When a customer indicates their preferred title, this title is used in subsequent communications sent to them from the Department as a mark of courtesy and respect.

Should a customer choose not to indicate their preferred title, this in no way affects their entitlement to any benefit or payment.