New Citizens Information Centre opens in Tipp

Minister Dara Calleary launches Clonmel Citizens Information Centre New Town-Centre Location, Delivering Enhanced Services for the Community

The Minister for Social Protection & Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has officially launched the brand-new Clonmel Citizens Information Centre (CIC) premises in the heart of Clonmel. The new premises opened its doors on January 5, 2026, and the move marks a major milestone for a service that has supported people in Clonmel and surrounding areas for nearly five decades.

Clonmel CIC first opened on May 4, 1979, launched by then Minister for Health & Social Welfare, Charles Haughey. It later relocated to Market Place in June 1998, where it served the community for over 27 years. The new location brings the next chapter, for Citizens Information at Tower House, New Quay. The office is modern, fully accessible, and designed with privacy, comfort, and digital support in mind.

A Busy Start in the New Premises

Since opening at the start of January, the new Clonmel CIC has already seen significant footfall. As of April 14, 2026, staff have supported the community with:

- 2,054 queries

- 754 callers

In 2025, Clonmel CIC helped with:

- 9,568 queries

- 3,825 callers

Across the wider North Munster Citizens Information Service (CIS), 101,803 queries were handled in 2025, which highlights the essential role Citizens Information plays in providing free, confidential, and independent information, advice and advocacy.

Top Issues Raised by People in Clonmel

The five most common areas people seek support with are:

- Social Welfare

- Housing

- Local Services

- Money & Tax

- Employment

These categories reflect the breadth of issues affecting individuals and families, and the importance of accessible, trusted information services at local level.

Improved Facilities and Enhanced Supports

The new premises offer the Clonmel community a greatly enhanced experience including:

- Private consultation rooms for confidential conversations

- A dedicated space for the Digital Help Scheme which supports people to access online public services

- A fully accessible, central location in Clonmel town

- A modern, welcoming environment for clients and staff

Darren Ryan, Regional Manager, North Munster Citizens Information Service: “This is a wonderful milestone for the people of Clonmel. Clonmel CIC has been serving the people of the town and surrounding areas since 1979 and the addition of this new modern, accessible and safe office space will greatly enhance the service delivered to our clients. The opening of this new centre is a huge step in the future of the service in Clonmel and will ensure that Citizens Information Services remain a cornerstone of the town. I wish to express my thanks to the staff, scheme workers and the many volunteers over the years who have built Clonmel CIC to be the service it is today and wish them well in their new home.”

Graham Long, Chief Executive Officer, Citizens Information Board, commented: “The Citizens Information Board are delighted to see Clonmel Citizens Information Centre open the doors of its new town-centre home. This modern, welcoming, and fully accessible premises reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring people can access clear, trusted information and support when they need it. Clonmel CIC has a long and proud history of serving the community, and this new location strengthens that tradition for the years ahead. I want to acknowledge the hard work of staff and volunteers whose dedication has brought us to this milestone, and I wish them every success as they continue supporting the people of Clonmel and surrounding areas.”