Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)

Much work is ongoing in my Department, in particular in terms of aligning work being done by local authorities, local community organisations and others. In that context discussions are ongoing on how we can share services and resources. I realise that specific work is being done in these projects and that we want to protect the work that is being done. I accept the point that was made in that regard.

Discussion is ongoing on a continuous basis and will continue. I undertake to ensure that I engage in the process. Unfortunately, that is all I can say today because I have inherited a budget that was cut by 75%. Budgets within the Department have been assigned for specific purposes. There is a process of engagement and funding has been provided up to the end of March. I will continue to communicate with the Deputies on the projects.

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