I regard the work of Community Alert as important. In recent years, my Department has provided funding to Muintir na Tíre for the Community Alert Programme of €150,000 in 2004, €120,000 in 2005, €175,000 in 2006 and €200,000 in 2007. The funding covered costs associated with running the Programme, including salaries, travel and subsistence, staff training and administration. Funding was also provided by the Health Service Executive.
In 2008, Community Alert has received from my Department funding of €100,000 to date and has recently requested further funding. My Department has requested information on its current financial position and details of projected expenditure and funding requested for the remainder of the year. On receipt of this information, my Department will consider what assistance it might be in a position to make available to Community Alert in the context of any resources available.