Jillian van Turnhout (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her input and for having attended the full debate. I also wish to thank each of my colleagues who contributed to the discussion, in particular, the Independent group's Members who contributed without hesitation. Senator O'Donnell seconded the motion and explained superbly how our group feels about this issue. At the group meeting, Senators Zappone, Mary Ann O'Brien, Mac Conghail, McAleese and others all had stories to tell about the value of youth work and its importance in all our lives.

As regards cuts, I listened carefully to what the Minister had to say about a "sharper focus on quality, outcome and evidence-based practice". Part of me says that just means cuts, but I take the spirit of what the Minister means. Equally, however, I read in the Indecon report's summary that "public funding provided by the State for youth work services represents value for money". It does not say that it will represent value for money, but that it does so now.

In considering the review of funding streams - which is something that youth groups have been seeking for years - it does not suit anybody to crudely cut organisations by the same percentage every year, whether or not they improve. I welcome the review but how will it happen, what are its terms of reference and will it be transparent? Many organisations are wondering about those questions.

I do not want to divide the House, but will the Minister give a commitment to meet with the National Youth Council of Ireland to discuss the funding streams?