Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am very pleased to engage with the Deputy on this issue. I understand and I am aware of the concerns about some family resource centres throughout the country. I have an absolute commitment to and an understanding of the incredible work done by family resource centres. Therefore, I was determined to ensure we would be able to invest more next year, as well as making more support available this year. As I have identified, we have recently done that. This commitment is demonstrated in providing more money for the centres, as well as to expand their number throughout the country. As the Deputy can appreciate, I have also received many representations in that regard. I see this as the first step towards increasing the level of investment in family resource centres. I accept some of the points raised by the Deputy, but this is a significant first step and a demonstration of our commitment.

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