Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 55: To ask the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to deal with the issues arising from the economic situation with particular reference to the emerging needs of those in both urban and rural settings who are likely to have a greater reliance on services provided by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39451/10]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, in the current economic circumstances, we continue to be faced with difficult decisions. Over the course of the economic downturn, the Government has considered a number of measures to maintain a prudent fiscal outturn for 2009 and 2010 and also to provide the basis for a sustainable approach to the current financial situation. Across Government, our approach has been to do this in as balanced a way as possible.

Notwithstanding these challenges, the Government - and indeed my Department - remain committed to the range of urban, rural, Gaeltacht and island communities we serve. Indubitably, given the prevalent financial circumstances, objectives will have to be pursued with less resources than previously. However, we will continue to strive to achieve good outcomes and value for money against these constraints.

The Deputy will appreciate that the 2011 allocations for my Department will not be decided until the Estimates process is completed within the framework of the forthcoming Budget. However, I can confirm that I will strive to protect, to the greatest extent possible, the daily front-line services provided with funding from my Department, especially those focused on the needs of the most socially deprived communities.