Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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509. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to introduce a family resource centre at a location (details supplied); the way in which an application can be made in relation to same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10822/19]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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The Family Resource Centre (FRC) Programme is administered by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency.

I am aware that an application for inclusion in the Programme was made by an organisation in the location to which the Deputy refers, last year. This organisation was not selected as one of the final eleven new Family Resource Centres in 2018.

I have secured an increase of €1.5 million in additional funding for the further investment and development of the Family Resource Centre Programme this year. However, there are currently no plans to establish any new Family Resource Centres in 2019.

Tusla will continue to support the organisation to which the Deputy refers through its local office.

Tusla identifies and monitors the need for the delivery of family support services based on population demographics and presenting needs across the country, including the Cavan-Monaghan area. Tusla plans to allocate future funding according to the results of needs analysis projects across the country.

Tusla continues to work with Family Resource Centres and other family support organisations throughout the country and will discuss service needs and funding resources with centres, where appropriate. Tusla is committed to using all available resources for children and families in the most efficient, equitable, proportionate and sustainable way.