Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I fully support Deputy Ring on this issue. Likewise, the Minister has my party's full support in terms of any mechanisms he may employ to ensure funding is provided for the schemes to which he referred. I am familiar with these types of schemes in my own constituency. These facilities often open on a Sunday and are used by people at all times of the day and night. They are of benefit to the entire community.

I will do everything I can to assist the Minister in making a case for the retention of these schemes. Cutbacks should not impact on entire communities in this manner. We will only survive current difficulties if communities pull together. This funding must be retained. My colleagues and I will fully support the Minister in every step he takes to meet that objective.

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