Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 26 Apr 1994

Vol. 441 No. 8

Written Answers. - Social Welfare Entitlements Booklet.

Liz McManus

Question:

57 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason it is not possible to have an up-to-date booklet on social welfare entitlements; his views on whether the delay in providing this information creates problems for people who are claiming social welfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Dr. Woods)

My Department's main information booklet "Guide to Social Welfare Services" is currently being updated to reflect changes in schemes and services since it was last published in 1991. The new edition of the booklet is expected to be available to members of the public by the end of June.

The new booklet will be redesigned and colour-coded to facilitate the reader in finding the information relevant to his/her circumstances. In addition, as part of a more targeted delivery of information, it is proposed that the new booklet will be available on computer disc, on cassette tape and in Braille. An Irish language version will also be produced.

While the "Guide to Social Welfare Services" provides a useful overview and summary of my Department's schemes and services, the primary method employed in reaching our customers is the publication for each of the services available of a comprehensive range of leaflets, booklets and fact sheets which are continuously updated and improved in terms of content and design.

Last year my Department produced a total of 24 information leaflets and fact sheets. In addition, a very useful guide to the law on social welfare was published. So far this year, we have produced 11 leaflets and fact sheets. Last month I launched the "Guide for the Unemployed" which is in line with my policy of providing comprehensive information for specific categories of social welfare customers in separate booklets.