'Extreme disappointment' over €10m. disability allocation

A Mayo TD has expressed his extreme disappointment at the allocation of €10 million in funding for disability services.

Deputy Michael Ring explained: “A sum of €10 million in funding will not alleviate the problems which have arisen as a result of services being curtailed or severely reduced since March 2020.

“Over the past number of months, very large funding in many multiples of €10 million has been awarded to other organisations and services.

“The €10 million which was announced by government for the disability services pales in comparison to this other funding.

“For many months now, families have been caring for people at home, many of whom have complex needs.

"This funding is simply not enough. Funding is required for many services right around the country.

"These services have to be properly funded and this recent announcement will not do that.

“It is very clear that there will be a need for extra staff to be employed so that the new changes required due to the Covid-19 pandemic can be implemented such as in the centres for example.

“I am calling on Deputy Anne Rabbette, Minister of State with Responsibility for Disability, to go back to government and seek funding far in excess of what was announced this week.”