Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 Nov 1990

Vol. 403 No. 3

Written Answers. - National Lottery Funds Allocation.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

30 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed by a number of voluntary organisations regarding the manner in which the Eastern Health Board have dispensed national lottery funds; if, in relation to the money allocated to the Eastern Health Board, he will outline the proportion which went to voluntary organisations or projects and the proportion which went to the board's own services or projects; the criteria health boards have been asked to apply when deciding the allocation between voluntary groups and other projects; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many voluntary organisations believe that they have been treated unfairly; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

The criteria health boards have been asked to apply when allocating their lottery funds are as follows: grants may be allocated to community based projects under the headings: mental and physical handicap, the elderly, psychiatric services, child services, personal social services, (including information and counselling services); at least 70 per cent of the block grant should be allocated to local voluntary groups; and grants from the block allocation should not be used in substitution for section 65 grants.

Health boards are also required to ensure that grants are made only to viable schemes which will be completed within a reasonable time.