Peter Power (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

I share the Deputy's concern to try to resolve the difficulties which these reductions impose. I acknowledge they pose severe challenges for the NGOs. However, the real challenge is to use the reduced allocations and resources in a much more effective fashion. We are doing so in Irish Aid and are challenging all our partners to do the same. While this is not easy, I take the Deputy's point regarding the retention of the bank of human knowledge, experience and capital within the NGO sector. In addition, we are working to keep volunteering alive and the Department will host a volunteering fair at the end of next week to encourage additional volunteering.

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