Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

A number of groups have made representations to me about this scheme, including many women's groups, active retirement groups, security services for the elderly, rural transport, community development and enterprise and local radio stations. They are concerned that following the cutbacks they will not be able to meet their health and safety criteria or cover their insurance. The schemes will not have enough money to keep going and they will close down as a result. Is there any way funding can be found for these groups, which are all deserving in their own right? They are dealing with the elderly and community groups and I do not want us to lose community feeling. During the past ten years it was extremely difficult to encourage people to become involved in their communities. However, increasing numbers of individuals are now doing so. We need our communities now more than ever. I urge the Minister to reconsider the matter in order to see what funding he might be able to obtain for any of the groups that are in difficulty. I received representations from 13 to 14 such groups.

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