Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome that the Minister is aware of the problem and that she recognises the potential impact on the children affected. I also welcome her indication that she intends to discuss the matter with Tusla. However, what I would like, although I accept it may not be possible, is an assurance from the Minister that she will do all in her power to have the grant reinstated. I understand the necessity for fairness and equity but as in the case of any budget item, schools that have become dependent on that grant are not in a position to draw resources from other areas. I am sure there are schools that have made their own provisions through fund-raising and other activities or are able to raise funds to provide third party support. However, generally speaking the schools that will be affected by this decision are schools serving disadvantaged areas where their capacity to fund-raise is limited.

Although the programme started in 1994, 23 years ago, the nature and complexity of the challenges facing children from disturbed backgrounds have changed significantly. Bereavement and loss may have been the action items that needed addressing at that time, but now there is a proliferation of drugs and various complexities associated with the make-up of families. Very significant issues evolve and change. The need for counselling has increased rather than decreased. I refer to the multifaceted and complex circumstances in which children find themselves. For that reason, I do not buy Tusla's notion that in order to be equitable and fair, it is better to take from those who have rather than giving to all. While I understand this somewhat perverse or reverse logic, I do not accept it, nor should the Minister or House. I appeal to the Minister to reiterate in her discussions with Tusla the importance of supporting those who have become dependent on the funding and who expected it.

See this speech in context