Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Volunteers come and go in all organisations so one could not state one has lost volunteers for the specific reason outlined. I would be very surprised if the reasons people ebb and flow between voluntary and charitable organisations were collated.

I had the privilege of speaking to probably 700 volunteers in Kilmainham last year. It is an annual day to reward, respect and congratulate the volunteers of CIB and MABS from around the country. They come to the event, are entertained and enjoy each other's company while having some food and drink. We socialise with them and thank them for volunteering. Not one person told me that day that he or she was unhappy. The volunteers were in high spirits. They were enjoying themselves and were very appreciative of the management of CIB in recognising the value of their contribution.

To answer the Deputy's question, I hope to increase, not decrease, the funding. I am not seeking to take money away from the CIB.

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