Pringle Calls on Minister to provide additional funding to all Community Service Programmes in Donegal

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Updated: 9th February 2016

Concerns have been raised by Community Service Programmes (CSPs) in Donegal of the consistent lack of engagement by Minister Joan Burton on the issue of funding for minimum wage increases.

Independent TD Thomas Pringle has written to Minister Joan Burton seeking a firm commitment to provide additional funding to all CSPs in Donegal and not just on a case by case basis as the Minister has recently announced.

‘Community Service Programmes are vitally important to rural life in Donegal and have dealt with the isolation felt by vulnerable and elderly people in rural communities and have provided a buffer for many families throughout the recession, providing jobs, childcare facilities, transport and social activities for the elderly.’

‘While I welcome any increase in the minimum wage, the Minister for Social Protection has only committed to funding CSPs on a case by case basis which will leave many without additional resources to pay increased wages. Despite the numerous calls made on behalf of CSPs in Donegal, the Minister has refused to engage further and for this reason I have written to her seeking a firm commitment to fund these vitally importance programmes.’

‘I have also indicated to the Minister that it remains a priority to me that services are supported in Donegal throughout the economic recovery as many vulnerable people may not yet feel the benefits felt across the country. I have also made the point that any benefits from minimum wage increases must be shared equally across the board including programmes which provide employment,’ concludes Pringle.

ENDS

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