Funding for Clare MABS and CICs

Ireland (SANEPR.com) July 18, 2008 -- Along with the Clare Money Advice and Budgetary Service (MABS) there are eight Citizens Information Centres in County Clare. The main centre is located in Ennis with outreach centres located in Kilrush (2), Shannon, Scarriff, Miltown Malbay, Killaloe and Kilkee.

Minister of State Killeen said, ‘This latest round of funding shows that the Department of Social and Family Affairs is very aware of the public's need for information on entitlements and rights. The Citizens Information Centres and outreach services in Clare provide a valuable and easily accessible network of information points that reach into every corner of the county.’

The Clare T.D. added, ‘The provision of information on the scale provided helps break down barriers, eases anxieties, opens up opportunities and often clears the way for citizens, particularly those who are most vulnerable in society, to improve their situations and build better lives.’

Commenting on the service provided by the Clare Money Advice and Budgetary Service (MABS), Minister of State Killeen stated, ‘Increasing numbers of people are recognising the value of the service Clare MABS offers. As it is free, independent and confidential, it is very reassuring to an indebted person that they can reveal the most intimate details of their financial affairs to a money adviser in complete confidence.’

He continued, ‘Money Advisers encounter first hand the human face of serious debt situations from small loans to difficulties with utilities bills such as electricity, gas and telephone bills, credit card debt, mortgage or rent arrears or indeed debt around life events such as First Communions, weddings and bereavements. I am delighted to see that the service here in Clare continues to reach out to people in debt, or in danger of sliding into debt, and help them to regain control of their finances and budgets for the future.’

The CICs provide independent information and advice in relation to health, social welfare, education, family support, housing, taxation, citizenship, consumer matters, employment and training, equality, asylum and immigration matters. Information is also available at the national Citizens Information Phone Service (lo call 1890 777 121 from 9am to 9pm Monday to Friday) and the Citizens Information website (www.citizensinformation.ie).

The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) money advisors help clients to assess their financial situation, make a budget plan for the future and deal with creditors. The contact information for the Clare MABS office is available on www.mabs.ie

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with special responsibility for Fisheries and Forestry), is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900