Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will bring the Deputy's concerns to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Reilly. I ask that he bring to the people concerned the message that this is not about imposing cuts. The review is an attempt to try to bring about best practice in this area given the variance between projects around the country. Some projects work extremely well and achieve great results. Like the Deputy, I am familiar with some of those projects, particularly the one in my constituency.

On cuts to funding, funding was cut across the board over the past number of years because the Government had €30 billion less to spend. The cuts were not imposed because the Government did not believe these schemes were working well. We recognise the great results they are achieving and want to continue them. I reiterate the review is a review to plan for the future of the scheme. The purpose of the review is not to identify areas where cuts can be made. It is important that the Deputy puts people's minds at ease in this regard. The purpose of the review is not to see if we can scrap the programme. While others might wish to pedal that message that is not the case. The purpose of the review is to see how the programme can be sustainable into the future, while ensuring we are getting the best value for our money. We must ensure the highest standards in all areas. That is the aim. Also, there are other areas with growing populations, such as my constituency in Navan, which do not yet avail of the programme and this will require more money to be spent in this area. Funding for the programme in 2015 has been increased, which should indicate the Government's intent in this area. It is important we ensure we get the best service possible. I will bring the Deputy's concerns to the attention of the Minister and ask that the Deputy also bring back the message to his constituents that the Government supports this programme.

See this speech in context