Public gives nine times more to charity

The public is giving nine times more than the State to a leading charity for seriously ill children — a development the group says reveals Government’s shoddy attitude to the service.

Jack and Jill Foundation CEO Jonathan Irwin revealed the situation after recent concerns over the finances of Irish charities.

Speaking after Barnardos confirmed it is closing its doors for a week, Mr Irwin said financial problems are increasingly apparent across private support groups.