An Chomhdháil welcomes the abolition of New Funding Model
July 2, 2012
Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge welcomes the decision by the Board of Foras na Gaeilge to abolish the new funding model which was proposed for the Irish language voluntary sector. The decision was announced after a Board meeting in Gaoth Dobhair on Friday.
Currently 19 Irish language organisations receive core-funding from Foras na Gaeilge. The current core-funding model is in effect since the foundation of Foras na Gaeilge in 1999, when the funding of eighteen organisations was transferred to Foras na Gaeilge.
The new funding model involved a portfolio of competitive schemes based on various criteria.
Last month, the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Transport, Culture and the Gaeltacht published a report on the New Funding Model for the Irish language voluntary sector.
The Joint Committee decided to commission a report having heard submissions from the organisations and from Foras na Gaeilge. The report stresses the importance of core-funding to provide important services to the Irish language community on an ongoing basis. The report also states that funding should not be based on a competitive schemes model.
The report from the Oireachtas Committee followed a recent motion in the Northern Irish Assembly which expressed concern as to the effect the new funding model would have on Irish language organisations, and concern relating to the public consultation process.
Speaking about the Board decision, Director of Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge, Kevin De Barra said: “Too much time has been wasted over the past number of years, discussing a funding model which was destined for failure from the outset. Foras na Gaeilge and the organisations must now work in partnership together, with input from language planners, and experts in change management, to ascertain the most effective and efficient manner of funding the sector, to maintain and improve services to the Irish language community”.
Press release by Comhdháil Násiúnta na Gaeilge
