At a time when people in South Dublin may be wondering what supports are available to them, the Citizens Information Service is reminding families and households that free, impartial information and advice is available locally.
Information Officers in local centres are available to help people navigate the range of social welfare and other supports they may be entitled to.
With several changes introduced in recent months, some households may not yet be aware of new entitlements available to them.
Richard Phillips, Regional Manager of South Dublin Citizens Information Service, said: “Our centres provide in-person support through our Information Officers.
“They have been helping people to apply for payments that they were not sure they were eligible to receive such as Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance, and Fuel Allowance.”
Recent changes households should be aware of include:
- Fuel Allowance has increased to €38 per week. The 2025/2026 season has been extended by four weeks and runs until 1 May 2026
- Working Family Payment recipients now qualify for Fuel Allowance for the first time, backdated to January 2026
- Reduced VAT on gas and electricity (9%) has been extended until 2030
- Core social welfare payments increased by €10 per week from January 2026
- Fuel excise reductions on petrol and diesel are in effect until 31 July 2026
Citizens Information Officers can help with a wide range of topics including social welfare entitlements, employment rights, housing, consumer issues, and health services.
The service is free, confidential, and impartial.
Contact your local Citizens Information Service:
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In person at your nearest Citizens Information Centre (Ballyfermot, Aungier Street, Clondalkin, Crumlin, Dun Laoghaire, Dundrum, The Liberties, Lucan, Tallaght)
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Telephone the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000
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Online: citizensinformation.ie