‘Charity donations down 40% after CRC scandal’

Some of the country’s leading charities claim donations have fallen by as much as 40% because of public fears about where the money might end up as a result of the top-up scandal at Central Remedial Clinic.

Many of the charities told the Irish Examiner they had noticed a significant fall in donations and the Simon Community said it was fearful about the level of service it would be able to offer its clients throughout the year.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter yesterday said he is “seeking expressions of interest” from suitably-qualified persons for membership of the board of the Charities Regulatory Authority.