Megan family concern over trust
A fundraising campaign got under way in Ireland to raise cash for the trip and lifesaving treatment while the Megan Malone Trust was formally established on December 3 last. While an anonymous donor has offered to cover Megan’s medical expenses, the Malones have expressed concern with the manner in which the Megan Malone Trust is being administered, claiming that the trust is refusing to reimburse them for legitimate living expenses while in New York.
The trust has stated that €16,262 has been paid to John Malone in respect of expense requests.
Megan’s dad John Malone has claimed however: “Sheila and I have received €11,368 and not €16,262 as documented by the trustees.”
The trust has also claimed to have refused to cover a further €13,211 in expenses submitted for the same period because “the trustees do not deem these requests to be reasonable nor in keeping with the objectives of the trust”. John Malone says: “The amount of unapproved expenses is €10,262.30.
“The trustees are refusing to pay for food for us while we are by Megan’s bedside, while she is being treated in the hospital. They refuse to pay for taxis for commuting in and out of the hospital, which is not only the safest but is also the most economical way to get Megan to and from the hospital given her condition. They refuse to pay for telephone calls to and from the hospital or otherwise. These are all reasonable living expenses and should be covered,” the Malones have said.
A spokesperson for the trust has confirmed the trustees are “seeking to appoint a new group of independent trustees to manage the fund”.
“Any appointments will be done in consultation with the Malone family and the fundraising committee.”
