Richard O'Donoghue (Limerick County, Independent)
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680. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the length of time that persons are waiting for the additional needs’ payment (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55019/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I can assure the Deputy that when the Community Welfare Service (CWS) becomes aware that a customer has an urgent or immediate need, every effort is made to ensure that the person receives a prompt service. Where possible, this is a same-day service.

The Department is taking steps to allocate additional staff to the CWS having received an increased staffing allocation during the estimates process. I expect recruitment for these posts to begin shortly. In addition, 30 Social Welfare Inspectors are being temporarily assigned to the CWS from 07/11/2022 for a period of three months to assist with claims processing.

The delivery of crucial community welfare services to meet the challenges and the needs of citizens across the country is a priority for the Government and for the Department of Social Protection.

If the Deputy is concerned about a particular case, I would ask that he brings this to the attention of the Department by emailing TDREPSCWS@welfare.ie or phoning the Oireachtas direct point of contact line at 01 462 4308.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.