COUNCIL management have been urged to consider the introduction of a dedicated customer service text line number.
Labour councillor Joe Leddin believes that, while there is an email address that members of the public can use to report a community issues, the reality is that many people may not have access to email, especially when out and about.
“I have met many people during my canvassing that have made this request that when they see maybe a pothole, a damaged footpath, or a street light not working, they can take a picture and send it in via WhatsApp,” Cllr Leddin explained.
He believes such a customer text line “would help ensure faster reporting of issues within communities that the council is responsible for” and that “the public would be more inclined to engage more in terms of reporting problems”.
“It is important that the council offer members of the public a variety of options in terms of contacting or engaging,” he added.
Cllr Leddin maintained that another advantage of a dedicated customer text line would be that when issues are spotted outside of office hours, people don’t have to wait to log a call.
He said such lines are “common practice with many companies and organisations to help customers communicate promptly”.
“Limerick City and County Council should take the lead in the launching a dedicated text line that will I believe contribute positively to a greater level of engagement with the wider public in the delivery of public services.”
