asked the Minister for Health if he intends to make a contribution to HOPE, a voluntary organisation for homeless and unattached young people and children; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Contribution to HOPE.
592.
Health boards can make contributions under section 65 of the Health Act, 1953, to voluntary organisations providing services similar or ancillary to the boards' services. The Eastern Health Board is the appropriate funding authority in the case of HOPE. I understand from the board that £43,000 was allocated to HOPE this year. The board have recently arranged for a review of the operation of the hostel including care policy, occupancy, staffing and salary levels. Decisions as to the future level of funding for HOPE will await the outcome of this review and will of course have to have regard to the board's financial position in 1985.
The Department of Social Welfare has received an application from HOPE for assistance from the £500,000 provided in this year's budget for voluntary bodies in the social services area. The application is at present being considered and I expect to be in a position to make a decision in the matter shortly.