Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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477. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the status of services (details supplied) in Killorglin, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5289/21]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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The Deputy will be aware that in 2020, the service in question received significant funding of over €444,000 from my Department for its youth services in Kerry. The service also received funding from other sources, such as Tusla in relation to family support services. I understand from previous questions and representations to me that the Deputy is referring to a matter relating to family support services funded by Tusla. It is important to understand that other activities, such as youth cafes, do not fall under this area, and would fall under the category of "youth funding" instead.

The commissioning of family support services is an operational matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. With regard to the issue raised by the Deputy, Tusla has reassured me that services will continue to be available in Killorglin and its surrounding area. Tusla's realignment of services will provide additional supports to young people, children and families throughout County Kerry. Tusla has also advised my Department that it has not reduced funding for the organisation named by the Deputy. It is important for Tusla to decide the most appropriate use of funding and resources within family support services.

In the commissioning of services, Tusla aims to utilise the total resources available for children and families in the most efficient, equitable, proportionate and sustainable way in order to improve outcomes for children and young people.

As the Deputy may require further information on this particular case, I have requested that Tusla respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.