Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

However, this is not equality. It is also not an issue that is confined to Dublin. Last week, I attended a meeting for the non-Gaeltacht island communities. Their community development programme is facing what will almost be a complete axing, undermining their front-line services. Deputy Halligan has just told me about a child care centre in a RAPID area in Waterford that provides low-cost child care for more than 100 children. Fourteen of its employees are on protective notice. Seemingly, there is a similar case in Sligo. While I am particularly concerned with Dublin, this issue arises elsewhere. It is causing the organisations in question a great deal of stress and distress.

The Minister, Deputy Kelly, is holding a number of meetings. For example, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Donohoe, will meet him and the Lord Mayor of Dublin has stated that he will be meeting him. However, it is more important that the Minister meet the community organisations that are on the front line of these cuts.

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