Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In 2008, the then Fine Gael spokesperson for children expressed sharp criticism of the proposed decrease in funding. He stated:

In the current economic climate the Government, in implementing cutbacks, needs to differentiate between services that are essential and those that are not. It should not simply engage in a crash and burn approach which implements overall reductions across a broad range of sectors indiscriminately.

He was referring to a 3% cutback. In 2012, there has been a cutback of 6.5%. In 2013, there will be a further cutback of 6.5%. I am concerned about the future of this important programme, given the level of financial commitment it has received heretofore.

The Minister mentioned a review. What will it cost, will it consult the relevant stakeholders and when can we expect its publication?

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