Citizens Information sees surge in queries

IRELAND’S economic downturn has resulted in a surge in the number of people looking for information and support about social welfare and employment rights from Citizens Information.

Demand for information, advice and advocacy from Citizens Information increased by almost a quarter during the first six months of this year, compared to the same period in 2008.

Last year was a very busy year for its network of 111 centres and 162 outreach services, which dealt with 668,980 calls, an increase of 9% on 2007, while queries increased to 957,044, up 7.5%.