Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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26. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will consider making necessary funding available to a centre (details supplied) to purchase their existing building and for renovations. [22192/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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I thank the Deputy for his question.

My officials have already received correspondence on this matter, and have consulted with Tusla in this regard.

First of all, I would like to acknowledge the valuable work of Family Resource Centres (FRCs). I very much value the positive impact of their work in supporting families and local communities. FRCs provide a holistic service of child, family and community support and advocacy. This allows for early identification of need, provision of appropriate interventions, and timely referrals to appropriate services.

The FRC in question has received funding under Tusla's Family Resource Centre Programme since 2004. Core funding from Tusla covers the employment of a full-time Co-ordinator, a part-time Development Worker and a part-time Administrator. It should be emphasised that Tusla is not the sole funder of FRCs.

Tusla has advised me that this FRC offers early intervention support to families in difficulty and it has experienced financial pressures over recent years. In 2016, Tusla provided funding of €82,940 to support the Centre in its work.

I recognise the benefits that additional space would bring to this FRC, and I understand the wish of its Board of Management to secure the property. Tusla is continuing to support the Centre with a contribution towards the running costs but is not in a position to provide funding for the purchase of the property.