Temporary appointment 'will allow Offaly's civil registration services to resume'

An Offaly TD said today (Thursday) that a temporary appointment to the HSE's civil registration office in Tullamore will allow its services resume "as a matter of urgency" following the recent closure of the office.

Deputy John Clendennen said he had engaged with the HSE about reinstating the service locally amid concern for its future.

Cases of couples in Offaly having to travel elsewhere to register their marriages as a result of the closure of the civil registration service were highlighted in recent weeks.

A statement issued by Deputy Clendennen earlier today said a person had been identified to fill the vacant position in a temporary capacity and this would allow for the resumption of services.

The Fine Gael TD said he had been advised that a full recruitment process is to follow, including the establishment of a panel for the 'Grade V' position.

Speaking on the matter, he said, "I remain committed to ensuring a permanent solution and ensuring the ongoing provision of these essential services for the people of Offaly.

"As I have stated previously, we really cannot have a situation where couples have to travel elsewhere for the service.

"These registration services, whether for births, deaths or marriages are essential and should be available in Offaly as they are in our neighbouring counties."

Deputy Clendennen concluded by stating that he would remain actively engaged with the HSE on the matter, and that he looked forward to seeing progress regarding a permanent appointment.

"It is vital that the position is filled permanently as soon as possible ensuring a fully functioning civil registration service for families and communities across Offaly," he said.

Last week, Independent Offaly TD Carol Nolan said issues affecting the Tullamore office had been ongoing for at least two years now.

According to Deputy Nolan, with no HSE civil celebrants available for new applicants in Offaly, venues across the county had been reporting that couples were forced to travel to other counties simply to register their marriages.

The TD said she was aware of recent cases including one of an Offaly couple that was directed to Limerick, along with a number of others.