November 2009 Newsletter

DFI has been working over the last few weeks to influence the Review of the Programme for Government. We have argued that Government needed to urgently agree with the disability sector a five year plan detailing how the National Disability Strategy will be protected and advanced during the difficult period ahead. We have proposed that the disability sector can actively work with the State to ensure maximum value and outcomes. Protection of services for people with disabilities and those with mental health needs is an essential element in the State's battle to emerge from the recession and to ensure that a viable social provision infrastructure is in place to support people with disabilities and mental health needs.

DFI welcomes the disability commitments within the review of the Programme for Government. However, there is still much to be done before the Budget. It is critically important now that organisations keep the pressure up locally with TDs and Senators, and ensure that disability remains a high priority on the agenda nationally and locally.

In addition to these efforts however we must all prepare for a challenging Budget for 2010. If the full affect of the €50 million cuts proposed through the McCarthy Report is applied universally, this will equate to an approximate 5% cut to an organisations funding. We appreciate that further cuts on top of those already assimilated by organisations in 2006 will cause great difficulty within your organisation and may affect the sustainability of the services your organisation provides. I encourage DFI member organisations to contact one of our DFI Support Officers during this process to support you in your planning process.

John Dolan
CEO