Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail)

The other cut which came into effect in the budget was the cut to the community employment schemes and the proposed saving of €41.5 million, involving a reduction from €1,500 to €500 for the materials and training element of the community employment contribution to the sponsor organisations. This will effectively result in finishing community employment schemes in rural areas unless the change is reversed. I appeal to the Minister to reconsider the issue and reinstate the €1,500 contribution that has been available to community employment organisations heretofore. These are organisations which provide crèche and preschool care, and facilities to local GAA clubs.