Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

The Minister, like every other Member, has had representations from various community and voluntary organisations regarding funding as we approach the budget. Following his meetings with them, is he satisfied he can address the concerns raised? In the community sector, there is an employment factor and each project employs a number of people in each area. There is grave concern that community and voluntary projects should continue. What does the Minister see as the overall scene in the sector? In a previous discussion of the issue, I pointed out that it is essential that we do not lose focus on the community and voluntary sectors to ensure the meitheal we talk about in here does not dwindle any further. Funding must be provided and effort and determination shown by the Minister and his Department to ensure the maximum funding in made available to allow for the funding of all groups in 2011.

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