Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 March 2019
263. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when a decision will be made regarding the additional funding for a centre (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14506/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTusla, the Child and Family Agency administers the Family Resource Centre (FRC) Programme. Tusla provides funding to seven FRCs in County Mayo.
Tusla has advised me that the FRC to which the Deputy refers will receive the same amount of core funding in 2019 as it did in 2018, which is €101,110.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that funding of some €18 million is being made available to the Family Resource Centre Programme in 2019, an increase of €1.5 million over 2018 funding.
The additional funding of €1.5 million has been secured for Family Resource Centres to support and develop existing Family Resource Centres this year.
Earlier this year, I met with officials from Tusla to discuss how the additional funding will be used to provide supports and improve outcomes for vulnerable children and families within the Family Resource Centre Programme. I have requested some additional information and recommendations from Tusla. and I hope to make an announcement with regard to the additional funding of €1.5m for FRCs before the Easter break.
I am committed to the further development of Family Resource Centres and I will continue to seek necessary funding for them in future budget discussions. It is important that the needs of children and families are met in the best way possible, particularly in areas of disadvantage. I will continue to support the work of Family Resource Centres and family support services throughout the country.
