If Fás scheme is cut ‘it would have a devastating effect’ on Marian’s life

MOST who took part in yesterday’s protest walked. Many elderly people travelled through the streets in community buses. And Marian Carmody from Cappawhite, Co Tipperary, moved along in her wheelchair, assisted by her father, Michael.

Marian, who is 25, suffers from spina bifida and fears budget cuts will hit community schemes at the local community centre in Cappawhite.

She said: “I work 19½ hours each week at the centre on a Fás supported scheme. As well as the opportunity to work, it is very important for me to be able to get out and go to work as it allows me the opportunity to meet my colleagues on the scheme.”

Marian does secretarial work at the centre and also helps set tables for meals given there each day.

Her father, Michael, a retired farmer, said if anything was to happen the Fás scheme Marian works on it would have a devastating effect on her, given the important role it plays in her life.

“We have come here today to add our support to all the other communities who feel under threat,” he said.