Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 September 2024
94. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide extra funding to an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38130/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have received the submission from the organisation referenced by the Deputy, and it is being reviewed within my Department.
Budget 2025 is currently being considered by Government in the context of the annual estimates process. Therefore, the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage.
However, from 2020 to Budget 2024, current Exchequer funding for youth services and programmes increased from €61.79 million to €77.95 million, a 26% increase overall.
My Department has made a significant investment in youth services in 2024, building on the increases in recent years and securing the achievements into the future. The current funding for youth services and programmes in my Department this year is €77.95 million, an increase of €5 million, or 6.8%, on the 2023 budget.
In the context of Budget 2025, I am committed to supporting this important sector which provides positive and transformative opportunities and supports to young people.
