Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I stated, the funding of €1.3 million is for the current year. What I am looking for is a commitment from the Department for the years 2024 to 2026. As stated by the Department, any proposed changes to the current model would need to take into account needs and resources. I understand that the process is ongoing but this is separate from the current model. It was a separate, unique situation in both Longford and Offaly which have taken a serious hit. We are grateful to the Department for the support we have received up to now. It has meant that we have not had to reduce our services or the number of projects we want to develop in the county. However, as I said, I think this is different from the model. I understand the review but we need a commitment that a specific sum of €1.2 million will be provided separate from the standard yearly Government allocations to the local authority. That is the commitment I need for our local authority so we can plan our services for the year ahead. As I said, I know from our director of finance John McKeon that the budgetary process has begun already.