Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 136: To ask the Taoiseach the reason funding for the Active Citizenship Office in his Department to implement the findings of the Taskforce on Active Citizenship has been cut from €200,000 in 2008 to €56,000 in 2009 or by 72%; the way the office or recommendations of the taskforce can be progressed on such a small budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40625/08]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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The estimate of €56,000 for 2009 in respect of the Active Citizenship Office provides for the non-pay administrative costs of the Office. The Office, together with a Steering Group on Active Citizenship, recently appointed by the Minister of State with special responsibility for Active Citizenship, will seek to progress the recommendations of the Taskforce on Active Citizenship. The recommendations, for the most part, relate to initiatives being undertaken by Government Departments and the costs of implementation of the initiatives will be borne in the Departments' votes.

In addition, there is continuing substantial support for active citizenship initiatives within the corporate sector. I am satisfied, within the financial resources available, that the Steering Group on Active Citizenship will make good progress in effecting their task.