Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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1296. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if her attention has been drawn to the decision by a charity (details supplied) to cease operating; the alternative provision that has been made to ensure the work of this group continues and that supports remain in place; if any alternative to closure or redeployment of staff at the charity was discussed or examined by her Department or the probation services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20543/22]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Director of the Probation Service that it was formally notified in March 2022 of the Board’s intention to wind down the organisation referred to by the Deputy.

The Probation Service has provided funding to the community organisation in question for the delivery of programmes and services to individuals and their families in Waterford. 

I am informed that the Department of Social Protection also provides funding to the organisation to support a Community Employment Drug Rehabilitation Programme. 

The Probation Service, in conjunction with other stakeholders, have continued to engage with the Board regarding the winding down process, and to explore the options for the future of the project as it relates to supports for participants. The Service has received assurances that it will be kept informed of developments as they arise.

In line with existing commitments, the Service will fund the organisation for the first half of this year, and will review the impact on the delivery of services to its existing clients in the region over the medium term.