Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)

Yes. I thank the Minister of State for replying to this matter. The Northside Community Law Centre assisted 3,300 people last year with the provision of advice, representation and education. It provides many services to people on the northside.

The centre received funding of €350,000 from the Department of Social Protection this year and it seeks that such funding will be ring-fenced and will continue to be provided for next year - it is not seeking an increase in funding. Historically, the centre was funded through the Department of Social Protection but the Department of Justice and Equality has a responsibility in this area in that solicitors are being provided with training through intern schemes in the law centre and various services are being provided. Volunteers provided 1,500 hours freely to deal with various issues and queries. Debt issues can be complex and that is the reason people need help. They would not use this facility if there was no demand for it in the first place. It is imperative that this issue be dealt with. The centre has been at the heart of the community since 1975 and the amount of funding required is very small.

The centre has been involved in innovative solutions in the area of mediation in terms of the community, parental, workplace and elder mediation and conflict coaching. It has been innovative and has provided a great deal of education, support and training for law graduates as well as helping people in the general community. I ask the Minister of State to ensure that the Department of Social Protection continues discussions with the law centre to ensure it remains on a stable footing for next year.

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