Voluntary Sector

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2024

Thursday, 16 May 2024

Ceisteanna (164)

Claire Kerrane

Ceist:

164. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if he is aware of the 2,500 care workers excluded from the pay deal agreed with Government to avert strike action by employees of voluntary organisations; the rationale for excluding these critical workers in the care sector, who care for the most vulnerable citizens; if he will correct this exclusion and ensure all workers doing the same work receive the increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22235/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform

I am presuming the Deputy is referring to private organisations which are grant funded in line with Section 39 of the Health Act 2004, Section 56 of the Child and Family Agency Act 2014 and Section 10 of the Housing Act 1988. Recognising the importance of these organisations, in terms of service delivery, I understand that the relevant departments engaged, through the WRC, last October and that there is a process of ongoing engagement currently being facilitated by the WRC.

If the Deputy requires further details, in relation to specific organisations, grants or agreements reached involving such bodies they can be obtained, from the relevant Minister.