Community Campaign Against Cutbacks
16 Jun 2009
Community Sector Marches Against Cutbacks
Update from SIPTU
On Wednesday 5th June almost 2000 people from the Community Sector marched to deliver a message to Government and the Department of Finance - we will fight cut backs.
The strength of our numbers and message was clear. Government has reversed cut backs in Community Employment and Childcare because workers stood together with their union.
The Government must learn that there are consequences for the attacks they are making against the community sector. That is why Wednesday's march was only the first action of many we will take to defend jobs, projects and communities. A second protest is being planned for September; the details will be circulated as soon as possible.
There was TV and newspaper coverage of the protest; web links to the articles are below. A video of the day will also be available at www.siptu.ie/community.
Irish Times
www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/health/2009/0609/1224248401911.html
Indymedia (photos)
www.indymedia.ie/article/92630
Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed (Video)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=acFfiQZZiOg
CE Cut Backs Reversed! Material & Training Grant Remains in Place
As you may know, the Department Enterprise directed FAS to make substantial cuts to the CE budget.
- The training grant was cut from €500 to €300, taking €4,490,400 out of CE
- The materials grant was cut from €20 to €15 taking €5,837,520 out of CE
The cuts in C.E. were one of the main grievances SIPTU members protested against on Wednesday. The good news is that these cuts in have been reversed. This is a clear victory by SIPTU members who took to the streets to voice their anger.
Childcare Capital Grant - Reprieve for 30 projects
Another key demand of the SIPTU Community protest was the issue of capital grants for childcare facilities. These grants are vital in helping childcare projects to start up and develop facilities. Earlier this year the Office for the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (OMCYA) announced that no further capital funding would be made available in 2009.
SIPTU is pleased to inform you that the OMCYA is making €10 million available for 30 childcare facilities (predominantly Community Childcare). Although the grants have not been fully restored, the funding will have a huge benefit for projects, workers and children.
