John Ellis
Question:194 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Social Welfare the action, if any, he proposes to take regarding bereavement counselling. [24984/96]
Written Answers. - Breavement Counselling.
My Department operates a scheme of grants to locally-based women's groups and a scheme of grants for locally-based men's groups.
Under these schemes grants can be made for a wide range of activities covering almost every aspect of personal and skills development. Projects should involve the participants in the running of, and where possible, the design of the project itself. Priority is given to projects aimed at developing the skill and expertise of individuals in setting-up and running projects in their communities; groups in disadvantaged areas; projects aimed at specially disadvantaged groups and new projects establishing themselves in their communities. The emphasis is on supporting self-help and community development initiatives, and not on the provision of services.
Funding is not normally provided by my Department towards costs of services that come within the remit of other statutory agencies. This would include bereavement counselling services and other personal services that are the responsibility of the health services.