The Citizens Information Network in Ireland celebrates its 50th year in operation in 2025. Citizens Information provides a free, impartial and confidential service to the public on a wide range of areas including social welfare and employment rights, health services, housing, education, family matters and consumer rights.
Galway Citizens Information Service, when it first opened its doors, was staffed mainly by volunteers. Now with a core group of permanent staff members, scheme workers and volunteers, Citizens Information continues to advise the public on a daily basis.
Zach Worrall, Development Manager of Galway CIS said that Citizens Information provides a crucial information and advice service to the public, informing them of their rights and entitlements.
“The service also offers advocacy support where necessary, helping people who need non-legal representation.
“Many people come in the door feeling vulnerable and worried, and it is a real pleasure to see the relief on their faces when they leave.
“On the anniversary of its establishment, the Citizens Information Network acknowledges and celebrates the men and women who have contributed to the delivery of this crucial public service over the last fifty years,” said Zach.
In addition to its city office, Galway CIS has offices located in Tuam, Rosmuc and Clifden. The service also has outreaches in Loughrea and Ballinasloe. Galway CIS is part of South Connacht Citizens Information Service which provides services in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.
In 2024, South Connacht Information Service provided information, advice and advocacy services to 30,082 clients and dealt with 57,215 queries. The demand for advice continues to grow.
The increasing move of public services and application processes online has led to real accessibility issues for many members of the public. By far the biggest issues facing clients continues to be administrative barriers and gaps in information; having one-to-one support from an Information Officer in situations like this is essential.
Staff at Galway CIS undertake training on an ongoing basis to update their knowledge and skills, and they work hard to provide a caring and empathetic service which empowers the clients they work with, while achieving the best possible outcome for them.
No appointment is necessary to meet with an Information Officer. Galway City CIS operates a drop-in service from Monday to Friday 10:00-1.00pm and Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 2pm until 4.30pm.
Additionally, the Ombudsman delivers a monthly outreach clinic in the Galway City CIS which is also on a drop-in basis. Members of the public can make a complaint to the Ombudsman if they believe they have been unfairly treated by certain public services.
For further information contact 0818 07 7600, email [email protected] or drop in to Augustine House, Augustine Street H91Y7XH.
Visit www.citizensinformation.ie drop into your local Citizens Information Service or telephone the Citizens Information Phone Service at 0818 07 4000
