David Stanton
Question:64 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the support, if any, given to the Consumers Association of Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15594/00]
Written Answers. - Consumers Association of Ireland.
The Consumers Association of Ireland, CAI, is a wholly independent, non-governmental organisation. My understanding is that it receives most of its funding from its membership and magazine and publication income, and that it receives part funding from time to time from the European Commission for projects undertaken to protect and promote consumer interests.
I am aware that, in 1998, the CAI made a submission for funding to the Minister for Finance, which was supported by my Department once my officials were informed about it. The application was not successful however. At around the same time, my officials had inconclusive discussions with the CAI on the question of financial support from my Department. Recently, and in the course of contact on another matter with the CAI, the opportunity arose for my officials to reopen this question, and it was agreed jointly to pursue it afresh over the course of the coming six months.