Citizens Information Services mark 50 years since the first Citizens Information Centres were registered
Today, the Citizens Information Services mark 50 years since the first twenty-five Citizens Information Centres were officially registered on 8 July 1975. Fifty years on, the network operates from more than 90 locations and is made up of eight regional Citizens Information Services and the Citizens Information Phone Service, which provide trusted information, advice and advocacy services to people nationwide. In 2024 alone, the CISs handled 767,168 queries.
The Citizens Information Services are supported and funded by the Citizen Information Board.
In the 1970s the National Social Service Council, in conjunction with local community groups throughout Ireland, identified the need for generalist information services to help “bridge the information gap between State services and the public.”
That need still remains, with continued demand for information on people’s rights and entitlements.
Services provided to the public include:
- The provision of trusted information on people’s rights, entitlements and responsibilities
- Assistance with application forms including social welfare payments, medical cards, Workplace Relations Commission complaints, and Residential Tenancy Board complaints.
- Assistance with housing issues, including information on private rented accommodation, social housing and Housing Assistance Payments
Visit citizensinformation.ie, drop into your local Citizens Information Centre or telephone the Citizens Information Phone Service at 0818 07 4000.
