Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 33: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn the report commissioned by IMPACT on the implications of the 2010 budget for the community and voluntary sector which warns that 5,000 jobs could be lost and the sectors capacity to represent and advocate for disadvantaged groups emasculated as a result of cuts; if he accepts the findings of the report; and if he will take steps to secure additional funding for the community and voluntary sector via his Department. [28748/10]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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I have seen a copy of the report in question and am aware of its findings. As the report, by its own admission, deals with the "likely consequences" of the 2010 Budget, it is by its nature speculative, as is its projection of 5,000 job losses in the community and voluntary sector.

In relation to the provision of supports to the community and voluntary sector by my Department, I can assure the Deputy of the Government's commitment to the development of our communities and our belief that the area of community development is central to the social and economic well-being of the country. Unfortunately, however, in the current economic climate, this sector, like all sectors of the Irish economy, has to operate within reduced budgets, and to rationalise and provide more effective services to the public, wherever possible.

As the Deputy will be aware, the future funding of the community and voluntary sector will be a matter for consideration by Government in the context of the 2011 Estimates process and funding allocations will not be confirmed until the 2011 Budget is announced.

I should add that the report in question refers to matters relating to a number of other Departments and agencies and it is, of course, for those bodies to respond, as appropriate, on areas relevant to them.