A VITAL service that has been forced to shut their doors was “a direct hit of Covid”, councillors confirmed.

Last week the Post reported how the Independent Resource Centre (IRC), based in Dumbarton Road, Dalmuir, will close for good on March 31 due to a lack of funding and a shortfall of more than £300,000.

Over the years, the IRC has helped residents with everything from debt issues and reclaiming benefits owed to them, to welfare advice and filling out forms.

The IRC staff and volunteers have recovered about £7million over its 32-year lifespan for Bankies.

Councillor Jim Bollan had proposed an emergency motion for the council’s Working4U team to take on the IRC premises in Clydebank as well as funding given they would need to take on support work.

The motion was not heard but instead, Councillor Ian Dickson noted within the SNP’s budget motion that Working4U would cover the impact of the loss of the IRC.

He told the meeting said: “The closure of the IRC will be a blow for communities and it has helped put millions of pounds in the hands of those who needed it most over its many years of operation.

“This closure is a direct result of the Covid-19 pandemic and we have considered that we may need extra investment in our Working4U team to resolve any extra work and help us continue to help those that previously had sought help from the IRC.”

Cllr Bollan, who at one time sat on the management committee of the IRC, had submitted his motion to the chair of the council to be considered for debate.

It read: “Council agrees to retain the £104,000 intended for the IRC plus the £63,000 held in reserves for the group.

“These amounts should be transferred to W4U to provide Welfare Rights Services in Clydebank.

“W4U should attempt to take over the IRC’s former premises to provide a familiar environment for Clydebank clients.”

Marie McNair, Clydebank’s MSP. said: “Budgets are always challenging for the council. As you know there is a Tory-fuelled cost of living crisis facing many of our constituents and this budget addresses those who are impacted most.

“I say that such as the investment to meet demand by the sad closure of the IRC.”