Benefits Minister turned down invite to city dole office and sent plenipotentiary

Londonderry MLA Mark H. Durkan asked why the Minister declined a request from a local MLA to visit the Foyle Jobs and Benefits Office.

Mr McCausland said the SSA received a request for a visit to the local dole office to meet and greet staff and get an overview of how each of the sections within the office was functioning

But he said it was better for a SSA manager to attend.

“The request was considered and taking account of the size of the office and the multiple functions performed it was felt that a meeting with the Regional Manager would be more appropriate in the first instance, in order to facilitate a wider discussion on any service issues,” he said.

“Should there be any subsequent requests to visit, arrangements may then be made for a visit to focus on specific sections where areas of concerns have been raised on the service provided,” he added.