Departmental Funding

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2014

Tuesday, 4 November 2014

Questions (573)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

573. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the vital work undertaken by Teenline with particular reference to children and teenagers suffering from depression or a tendency to self-harm; if he will favourably consider an application for funding in the order required as already set out by the organisation which relies heavily on voluntary effort for its important work; if grant aid from the national lottery or direct funding may be considered as an early option to provide support for the continuation of this essential support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41930/14]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

My Department has a funding provision this year of some €900,000 in respect of National Lottery Funding. In excess of 800 applications for grant support have been received from individuals, groups and organisations. The current value of these applications amounts to approximately €8 million which far exceeds the available resources. The organisation to which the Deputy refers is one of these applications.

I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that, in the circumstances, it will not be possible to assist all applications. However, the assessment process is ongoing and all applicants will be informed of the outcome as soon as final decisions have been made.