Confirmation that the Citizens Information Bureau will maintain it’s presence in Shannon into the future has received a tentative welcome.
There has been concern locally that the service would cease, after it emerged that the centre it’s currently based in may close in the coming weeks, due to funding constraints.
But questions still remain over aspects of the service currently offered at the Shannon office, as Clare FM’s Fiona Cahill reports.
The Citizens Information Board is reassuring Shannon residents that it will offer what it describes as an improved service in the town in the near future.
It comes in the wake of concerns that the local community office, which houses its services will close in the coming weeks.
This led to a petition being launched calling on the Government to intervene to save vital community services.
Citizens Information has hired two new staff, and says it will offer a five-day-a-week service in Shannon Town, either at its current base or elsewhere.
Chief Executive of the Citizens Information Board, Angela Black.
The Citizens Information Board’s move copper-fastens their service in Shannon going forward, but doubts still remain over other aspects of the service currently offered at the Shannon Centre.
It’s funded by Clarecare, which told Clare FM this week that it is exploring other possible options in an effort to retain aspects of the vital service.
The Cathaoirleach of the Shannon Municipal District has welcomed the confirmation of a permanent presence of Citizens Information as a step in the right direction.
Independent Councillor Gerry Flynn says the Council itself may look to support Clarecare as well, to retain the existing services.
Statement From Clarecare
Currently Clarecare is continuing to explore possible funding streams, to enable consideration to be given to the continued delivery of certain aspects of the service provided by our Community office in Shannon.
Clarecare are currently in discussions with CIB about the most appropriate location for their (CIB’s) new Information Officer posts, which may be in the current Clarecare office or in a new location in Shannon. We understand that the new positions will provide an Information, Advice and Advocacy service to the people of Shannon and surrounding areas.
As this is a very sensitive time for all concerned especially for Clarecare’s three employees; discussions will take time to conclude and Clarecare will provide an update in due course.
