Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in view of the excellent work done by youth services in Dublin, her plans to reverse her decision to cut their budget in 2013; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14682/13]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Youth Affairs Unit of my Department supports the delivery of a range of youth work programmes and services for all young people, including those from disadvantaged communities, by the voluntary youth sector. These schemes include the Youth Service Grant Scheme, the Special Projects for Youth Scheme, the Young People’s Facilities and Services Fund Rounds 1 and 2, Local Drug Task Force Projects and certain other provisions including the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme, Youth Information Centres, the European Youth in Action Programme (administered by Léargas – the Exchange Bureau) and Gaisce – the President’s Award.

Funding of €53.173m has been provided to my Department for the provision of youth services in 2013. Of this total funding, €1.75 has been provided in a new capital funding programme for 2013.

The Comprehensive Review of Expenditure (CRE) published in December 2011 sets out clearly the savings required from the Department in 2012, 2013, 2014. The CRE contains a detailed seven page chapter outlining savings required from youth work funding. The CRE requires a 10% saving in 2013, with a lessor saving in 2014. Having regard to the savings requirements identified in the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure my Department has tried to ensure that, in the determination process for the allocations, the front line youth services, particularly those for the most vulnerable young people are protected as far as is possible from the impact of any necessary reductions in funding.

With respect to future funding provision, my Department has commenced a comprehensive Value for Money and Policy Review of youth funding and this report is expected later this year.

In addition, I am committed to the development of a new youth policy framework which my Department is currently progressing. Through this work a clear policy framework will emerge that will aim to enhance the development, participation and support of young people. I intend that the policy framework will also facilitate and promote co-ordination and cohesion across departments and front line youth services including youth services in Dublin. This will ensure that the funding available in future years will be used as effectively as possible.