Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party)
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1212. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he has had discussions with an organisation (details supplied) regarding its need for financial support; the supports his Department plans to provide to the organisation in 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18193/21]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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The current financial difficulties in the organisation referred to by the Deputy has been brought to my attention at a meeting with the organisation’s Board. The ongoing management of the organisation referred to by the Deputy is a matter for their Board, including the challenges being presented due to the recent Covid-19 restrictions.

My Department provides substantial funding to this organisation, which plays an important role in providing young people with opportunities for developmental experiences and informal learning. All of the youth funding provided by my Department has been maintained fully throughout the ongoing period of restrictions. In addition, I secured an increase in 2021 for youth services, including an increase for the organisation referred to by the Deputy.

My officials are in regular contact with youth sector representatives in relation to the impact of the pandemic and associated health restrictions. It is of importance that Exchequer funding to youth services nationally is protected and I am satisfied that Government has been able to continue to support them. My officials will continue to work closely with youth organisations and will actively monitor the situation.