FF Leader appalled at funding cut for 26 disability organisations

Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin says he is appalled at Government funding cuts for 26 disability organisations which will impact on services for thousands of disabled people.

Deputy Martin used Leaders’ Questions today to highlight organisations like the Neurological Alliance of Ireland, which faces closure due to the cuts.

“Organisations like the Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI) provide vital supports for the 700,000 people in Ireland affected by conditions like epilepsy, acquired brain injury and MS.

“Due to funding cuts announced by former Minister Phil Hogan last week to the small allowances received by these groups, the NAI, for example, faces closure.

“Other bodies like Chronic Pain Ireland will cease operations completely, while the Alzheimer Society will lose vital early intervention services.

“The overall saving for the Government of €1.2 million is minute but hugely significant for these voluntary organisations. To cut these services for so little money is appalling and it is clear from this that the Government’s commitment to disability services is in shreds.

“I am calling on the Taoiseach to show some heart and intervene to ensure these organisations continue to receive the funding they are depending on.

“The Government has form in targeting the most vulnerable in society. Do we have to again witness people with disabilities protesting overnight outside the Dáil; against cuts to the Home Care Package, which forced the Government into an embarrassing u-turn; to persuade the Taoiseach into showing some humanity?”