Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 July 2016
306. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will intervene to prevent cuts to funding at a location (details supplied); the reason such cuts are being implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19590/16]
View answerThe Community Services Programme (CSP) supports community businesses to deliver local services to their communities and to create employment opportunities for people from disadvantaged groups. The Programme is managed on behalf of the Department by Pobal.
The CSP is designed on a social enterprise model and a core requirement of the programme is that contract holders generate non-public revenue from their operations e.g. by charging fees for services delivered or fundraising. The grant from the Department is not intended to represent full-funding. Companies in contract under the CSP are responsible for their own budgets, income, financial and other liabilities and must be not-for-profit, social enterprise or community business in nature.
The activities of the company was examined earlier this year and it was concluded that the funding under the CSP should be reduced. This was communicated to the company who have requested a review of the decision; a final outcome is expected in August.
