Paul Connaughton (Galway East, Fine Gael)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for allowing me to raise this issue and I thank the Minister for being in attendance.

Deputies O'Mahony and Deering have spelled out our concerns. Since this measure was announced in the budget, I have met participants of many of the schemes, particularly in east Galway where there are 33 schemes and where hundreds of people will be affected. Some of these schemes have already had their funding cut. Having met them and seen the work they do it is clear that many of the people who avail of these schemes go on to further employment, having availed of the training offered. The schemes are working and are doing the job they are supposed to do.

Will schemes whose funding has been cut before the review has taken place have the money to complete their contracts, whether they end in March or continue until the summer? Will schemes that prove they are doing the job properly receive the same level of funding as last year?

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