Dáil debates

Wednesday, 4 March 2015

Other Questions

Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme

10:20 am

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

I thank the Minister of State for her reply. What is happening for Dublin Central is welcome news. However, a meeting with the Minister, who could have listened directly to those involved without giving any commitments, would have eased some of the stress and difficulty they have been going through for the past few months.

I would reiterate that the areas they are dealing with have higher than national average unemployment figures, as well as bigger numbers of lone parents and disadvantaged families. In addition, there are significant areas of poverty and deprivation. We have massive housing issues because huge numbers of people are living in local authority or private rented accommodation. We also have open and blatant drug dealing on the streets. Community projects are dealing with those issues as they arise. What is happening for Dublin Central is welcome but it could mean job losses in other areas. It is regrettable that the experience of community workers in other areas could be lost. How long is funding guaranteed for the new programme?

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