State faces fury during Olympics

As many voluntary organisations have realised, especially those involved in the various health sectors, the Government is slow to provide the necessary funding and resources despite the fact it would cost substantially more if the State had to provide some of the services directly.

The latest to have a serious cause for grievance are the nine organisations who have come together under the umbrella of the Not for Profit Business Association (NFPBA).

Collectively, they were promised €12 million from but only €5.9m has been allocated for the year. Together, the nine organisations look after 40,000 people with physical and sensory disabilities.

NFPBA is quite correct in pointing out that the amount of money needed to provide an acceptable level of care for these people does not amount to much, especially considering what is provided.

The combined organisations are considering using the Special Olympics to get their message and justifiable anger across to the Government through dignified protests. They have a justified cause, but it may not be the most appropriate occasion.