Limerick TD says new bill would protect money advice service

THE CONTROVERSIAL restructuring process of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) must be stopped, according to a Limerick TD.

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Maurice Quinlivan has said the restructuring of MABS under the remit of the Citizens Information Board comes without any proper consultation and without the support of the majority of service providers.

“At a time when so many people are in mortgage distress, in danger of losing their homes, left to battle with banks, and in debt, the MABS service is needed now more than ever,” Deputy Quinlivan said. 

“This restructuring comes without any proper consultation with MABS, without the support of the majority of MABS across the State, and in direct conflict with the recent recommendations from the Joint Committee on Social Protection who unanimously recommended halting the restructuring process.”

“We cannot allow this restructuring process to bulldoze ahead without consultation and without the consent of MABS services.”

“Not only are CIB intent on progressing with their restructuring plans without proper consultation with MABS, they have shown utter contempt for an Oireachtas Committee who worked extensively examining the restructuring proposals, listening to all relevant stakeholders, and publishing a report with recommendations.”

“Every Member in this House and indeed, the general public know of the great service provided by MABS in Limerick and across the state.”

Sinn Féin’s Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Bill would remove MABS from the remit of the CIB he added.

“If we truly respect and acknowledge the unique work carried out by MABS across this State, we need to remove it from CIB and return it to the remit of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.”