Press Release May 2010
The Minister for Social Protection, Éamon Ó Cuív TD recently visited the Citizens Information Centre (CIC), Croke Street, Thurles which is part of County Tipperary Citizens Information Service.
Speaking with staff and volunteers in the Centre, Minister Ó Cuív said: "The staff and volunteers of Thurles Citizens Information Centre have been serving the local community for 35 years. Through this CIC the people of Thurles and the surrounding areas have access to free, independent information and advice in relation to health, education, social welfare, employment and consumer matters. The centre also offers a Free Legal Advice Service once a month."
Thurles CIC was established in 1975 and became part of County Tipperary Citizens Information Service (CIS) in 2002. Co. Tipperary CIS currently operates five Citizens Information Centres (CICs). These are in Thurles, Clonmel, Tipperary, Roscrea and Nenagh. There are a further three outreach services in Carrick on Suir, Cahir and Cashel.
Last year Co. Tipperary CIS dealt with more than 56,000 enquiries, an increase of 8% on figures from 2008 while Thurles CIC dealt with over 16,600 queries.
Co. Tipperary CIS operates with the assistance of some 90 volunteers. Remarking on this, Minister Ó Cuív said: "The Government is keen to promote volunteering and 'active citizenship' - where citizens get involved in their local communities. The volunteers who give their time to Co. Tipperary CIS are a marvellous example of active citizenship and are to be congratulated for their generosity of spirit. Some of these volunteers will be honoured shortly at a Celebrating Volunteering Awards ceremony. It is a well deserved honour."
Minister Ó Cuív concluded his visit by wishing the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and all of those involved in Co. Tipperary CIS every success in their future work.
