Limerick community funding cuts raised in the Dáil

THE ISSUE of proposed cuts to the Limerick City Community Development Project (CDP) was raised in Dáil Éireann.

Limerick City CDP facilitates the improvement of the quality of life of Limerick communities experiencing the greatest levels of socio-economic disadvantage and social exclusion.

Speaking in the Dáil, Limerick city and Fianna Fáil TD Willie O'Dea said: “Last November, I raised with the Taoiseach the disturbing suggestion that community funding for the north side of Limerick city was about to be cut by 59%.

“At the time he expressed concern and said he would ask the minister of state to have a word with me. The Taoiseach did that and I thank him for that. However, when I spoke to the minister of state, he said he could not meet the representatives of the communities affected because the decision had not yet been taken.

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“The decision has now been taken and instead of a 59% cut, we are getting a 100% cut on the north side of Limerick city.

“Could the Taoiseach instruct the minister of state to meet representatives of those communities now that this decision has been taken?”

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Heather Humphreys answered the question: "I will raise this matter with the minister of state, Deputy Joe O'Brien, in my department when I go back and I will get him to speak to the deputy directly about the issue.”