Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 March 2014
276. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Social Protection if funding will be continued in respect of a project where valuable and much-needed employment has been created (details supplied); if urgent consideration will be given to the detailed appeal submitted to Pobal in respect of the need to continue financial assistance for this project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12150/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of the regular re-contracting process undertaken for the Community Services Programme, the company in question submitted its business plan for the future contracting period beginning in 2014. The business plan was assessed as being weak as it did not adequately demonstrate a need for the service nor was it possible to conclude that good value for money would be delivered over the coming years and when compared to other services, the future sustainability of the service was in doubt.
The Department has agreed to a proposal from the Board that the opportunity should be afforded to the company to develop an alternative service proposal to reflect emerging priorities and needs in the communities serviced. The proposals will be evaluated when received and if found to be of satisfactory standard, it will allow for continued programme support. The current commitment to the company is some €127,000 per annum.
