Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
46. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he has plans or intends to establish a social welfare office in Athenry, County Galway, in light of the town’s rapidly growing population and projected future development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1784/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe people of Athenry and its surrounds are currently served by the Intreo Centres in Galway, Loughrea, and the Department of Social Protection office, and Branch Office, in Tuam. These offices are a single point of contact for employment services, identity services (Public Service Cards) and income supports, including the Community Welfare Service. Customers can avail of a walk-in or appointment service, as appropriate to the office. Appointments for processing Personal Public Service (PPS) number applications are provided at our Galway office.
While local face-to-face engagement with people continues to be a cornerstone of social welfare services, it is important to mention that a person does not need to attend in person to make an application for a scheme or payment, or avail of the Community Welfare Services. The MyWelfare online service facilitates customers in applying for a number of schemes, managing their claims and submitting information and documentation directly to their local office for review. The majority of applications for Jobseekers payments are made online. People may also submit a paper application for a scheme, and any person who needs to access the Community Welfare Service can call the National Community Welfare Service freephone number. A person from any location can speak with a Community Welfare Officer over the phone if they do not wish to travel to an office to meet with an officer in person.
In addition, all scheme areas in the department are contactable by phone. Telephone queries relating to Intreo services are dealt with by the National Intreo Contact Centre, which is available to support customers with their queries on 0818 405060 from 8.15am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Customers will find information and contact details, including phone numbers and emails, for all DSP schemes and services on the department's www.Gov.ie site.
The Department will continue to keep access to services under review.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
