John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)

No, I cannot. It would not be possible for me to make such a promise in advance of whatever will happen later in the month. Neither my Department nor any other will be immune to what is happening in the economy. I am aware of the work undertaken by these community development groups and other groups that work in communities. I will endeavour to work with all groups to ensure the services they provide continue to be provided in the communities and areas of disadvantage. However, if the Deputy is asking whether I can guarantee the actual cash figure that has been allocated will continue, I cannot. Nevertheless, in respect of front line services that are being provided in areas of disadvantage and which are experiencing great difficulties at present, I will work to ensure that they will continue to be provided.

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