Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for her response and I hope the commitment to no reduction in funding in 2015 will be kept. I hope that is on the Dáil record. ChildVision is an excellent service, as the Minister of State has indicated, and the work and dedication of Mr. Brian Allen and the staff is above the highest standards. I visited the facility recently and was very impressed by the warmth and energy of all the staff and the people dealing with a very difficult issue.

Over the past couple of years, staff have had a take voluntary wage cuts of 10% and maternity leave was reduced by 50%. Staff costs have been reduced for lower-paid staff and there have also been changes to sick-pay policy and reduced staff numbers. ChildVision has also had to increase funding activity to meet the annual shortfalls. It has seen cuts in excess of €821,000. It has taken a hit and now we have an opportunity to ensure the service takes no further hit. It is an excellent service that must be developed and not cut.

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