Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Nov 2002

Vol. 558 No. 2

Written Answers. - Youth Services.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

166 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if proper provision is being made for the youth service grants scheme; the contracts with the service in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24064/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey):

Funding for the support of voluntary youth work is made available on an annual basis to 33 national and major regional voluntary youth organisations through the youth service grants scheme, administered by the youth affairs section of my Department. This funding is intended to ensure the emergence, promotion, growth and development of these organisations.

Expenditure on this scheme in 2001 amounted to €8,806,218 and it is estimated that expenditure for 2002 will be in the region of €9.5 million. This amount represents an increase of almost 8% on spending in 2001. There has been a steady increase in funding for the youth sector over the past five years, representing a 49% increase in spending and demonstrating the Government's commitment to supporting the work of the youth sector.