Donegal Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Plan to axe health projects in County Donegal

Published: 30 March, 2009

Sinn Féin Candidate for DEA, Jim McLaughlin has called for the HSE to reconsider their plan to axe health and community projects in disadvantaged rural areas such as County Donegal. McLaughlin commented:

"I understand that the Department of Finance are planning to block funding for community and health projects under the RAPID and Clár programmes for disadvantaged rural areas".

The approved funding included plans to upgrade and equip 10 day-care centres for older people in County Donegal.

McLaughlin continued:

"Such services are vital for older people in rural areas to enhance quality of life and to prevent social isolation. Older people have made a lifetime of contribution to our society through their work and taxes and it seems inherently unjust that such cutbacks are on the table whilst at the same time Mary Harney recently sanctioned massive pay hikes to HSE's top executives."