Dublin's youth money stuck in pipeline
BY TARA O'LIATH.
The youth services and facilities fund for Dublin announced by the
Dublin government to target those in the 10-25 age group deemed to be
at risk was welcomed by the 13 represented drug task force areas. It
is now April, however, seven months later, and monies from the £20
million to be spent over a three-year period have yet to be
allocated.
In contrast, community groups throughout Dublin city had to prepare
their proposals on this issue almost overnight, as they were
pressured to submit all proposals for funding before October 1, 1998.
Finian Judge, secretary to Minister Chris Flood, has now told An
Phoblacht that ``a decision on the allocation of funds is anticipated
to be approved by the Cabinet today, Thursday 22 April, and an
announcement will be made by An Taoiseach thereafter''.
Communities who are awaiting monies from the fund are understandably
sceptical, because they've heard it all before and feel that at this
stage they are being held to ransom.
Even the request for proposals showed a blatant disregard for
communities and their shortage of resources. Moreover, while groups
who work with those at risk in the 13 areas welcome the fund, £20
million over a three year period is but a drop in a very big ocean
when a `get them while they're young policy' surely needs to apply.
Sinn Féin representative Daithí Doolan says: ``Communities who are the
most vulnerable have begun to feel that they are pawns in the
politicians' game. Already overstretched, they are dependant on this
money and seven months later they are still waiting. It's a
reflection on the serious lack of commitment on the government's
behalf in tackling the drugs problem and wider issues.
``If the government fails to provide adequate resources for the youth
of today, particularly the more disadvantaged, the youth of tomorrow
don't stand a chance.''
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