Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2021
989. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide a once-off bridging grant of €2 million to an organisation (details supplied) to assist it to provide essential services to its members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31509/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe ongoing management of the organisation referred to by the Deputy is a matter for their Board, including the challenges being presented due to the Covid-19 restrictions.
My Department provides substantial funding to this organisation, which plays an important role in providing young people with opportunities for developmental experiences and informal learning. All of the youth funding provided by my Department has been maintained fully throughout the ongoing period of restrictions. In addition, I secured an increase in 2021 for youth services, including an increase for the organisation referred to by the Deputy. I have no plans to provide additional funding to this organisation.
My officials are in regular contact with youth sector representatives in relation to the impact of the pandemic and associated health restrictions. It is of importance that Exchequer funding to youth services nationally is protected and I am satisfied that Government has been able to continue to support them. My officials will continue to work closely with youth organisations and will actively monitor the situation. We very much appreciate the challenges Covid-19 has posed for them and continues to pose.
