People put off from accessing vital Tipperary support services by rules that 'make no sense'
Confusing rules are putting people off from accessing the essential training centre services in Tipperary, a Senator has said.
Concerns about access to vital disability and mental health support in County Tipperary were raised in Seanad Éireann by Senator Tom Clonan, who called for urgent clarity on administrative rules affecting service users in Clonmel.
Cluain Training Centre, based in Clonmel, provides education, training, day activities and respite for people with disabilities and those experiencing mental health difficulties.
The facility is widely regarded as a crucial support in south Tipperary. “It is the only centre in that part of south Tipperary doing this,” Senator Clonan told the Seanad Éireann during a debate held on Wednesday, April 22.
Senator Clonan told the chamber that individuals enrolling in programmes at the centre are required to transfer their disability allowance or other social welfare payments to the service for the duration of their course.
He argued that this requirement is discouraging participation, particularly among those already dealing with complex personal and financial challenges.
“This is a vital local resource, but people are being put off accessing it because of a bureaucratic hurdle that simply doesn’t make sense,” he said, warning that those who could benefit most are opting out.
The Senator also pointed to confusion between government bodies when the matter is raised through parliamentary channels. He said responses to his queries have alternated between the Department of Social Protection, the Health Service Executive, and the Department of Health, with each indicating the issue falls outside its remit.
Rather than issuing what he described as “cryptic” responses, Senator Clonan called on government departments to clearly identify who is responsible and to assist him in effectively representing his constituents.
Responding to the issue, Senator Seán Kyne acknowledged the concerns raised about Cluain services and the requirement around disability allowance payments.
He said the matter had effectively fallen between two departments but agreed there should be no “buck passing.”
He indicated efforts would be made to identify the appropriate department to address the issue.