Schematic For The People As Connecting Citizens Launched

Citizens Information’s Bray HQ…

atest press release from the South Leinster Citizens Information Service, actually issued a few weeks back…

The South Leinster Citizens Information Service, Co. Wicklow proudly welcomes the launch of the first-ever National Citizens Information Service Strategy 2025–2027, unveiled by Minister Dara Calleary TD.

The event was attended by several government representatives, including Wicklow’s own Deputy Edward Timmins, who met with Development Manager, Martina Cronin, to acknowledge the essential role of CIS in supporting individuals and families across County Wicklow.

The new strategy, titled Connecting Citizens, provides — for the first time — a unified national framework for the CIS network. It outlines a shared vision, mission and set of values alongside four strategic pillars: Service Delivery, People, Strengthening the Organisation, and Collaboration.

Why This Strategy Matters for Wicklow
For the Citizens Information Centres (CICs) in Bray and Arklow, the strategy serves as a clear yardstick for measuring progress over the next three years. It strengthens the service’s ability to deliver consistent, high-quality services at a time when public need is rapidly increasing.

In 2024, CICs in Wicklow supported 15,300 queries and assisted 7,300 callers, reflecting the growing complexity of issues facing people in the county. A team of 30 volunteers, working alongside dedicated staff, play a vital role in delivering the Citizens Information Service.

Local Service Priorities Aligned to the National Strategy

1. Improved Service Delivery for Wicklow Communities
– Continued emphasis on face-to-face support as well as the extension of our Digital Help Service to Arklow CIC.

2. Investing in People
– Continued investment in our most important resource, our Staff and Volunteers.

3. Stronger Organisation, Stronger Outcomes
– Continued focus on governance as well as measuring our social impact in Co. Wicklow.

4. Enhanced Collaboration Across Wicklow and Beyond
– Continue with enhancing partnerships with various organisations, in particular, local agencies.

A Milestone for Wicklow
Martina concludes, “This strategy gives us a national framework that directly strengthens our work in Wicklow. It reinforces the personal, community-centred approach we take in Bray and Arklow Citizens Information Centres, while giving us the tools and guidance to grow, adapt and meet demand.”

Funded by the Citizens Information Board, the range of areas covered by the CIS are wide including social welfare rights and entitlements and other social issues such as employment, health services, housing, education, family matters and consumer rights on which people need access to information.

You can read the Connecting Citizens National Strategy here, find out more about Bray’s CIS right here, or get in touch your local Citizens Information Centre in Bray by calling Martina and co on 0818076780 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).