Investment in important reforms for children and families at forefront of Budget 2014 – Henry

Fine Gael Sligo/North Leitrim Senator, Imelda Henry, has today (Tuesday) welcomed the investment in important reforms contained in Budget 2014 which will be of great benefit to children and families across the country.

“Budget 2014 contains some important measures which will see significant investment in important reforms for children and families. These include additional funding of €6.7 million being made available to reform child welfare and protection services; funding of €4.5 million to recruit additional pre-school inspectors, the establishment of a pre-school mentoring service and support staff training; and an additional €1.5 million for the implementation of the Area Based Childhood (ABC) programme, which aims to improve outcomes for children in disadvantaged communities.

“This Government created the first ever Department of Children and Youth Affairs which has the sole responsibility for looking after the welfare of children in this country, and, despite the tough economic climate, continues to ensure that the much needed reform of this area is implemented as a matter of priority to support Ireland’s children and families.

“An additional €15 million has been allocated to the Department, bringing its annual budget to €414 million in current expenditure and €35 million in capital expenditure. This additional funding will go a long way towards driving the reform agenda so that children in this country receive all the necessary supports to ensure that they have a happy and healthy childhood and go on to prosper in adult life.”

ENDS