Cut in Disabled Persons Grant Condemned

Cut in Disabled Persons Grant Condemned


Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins has condemned last night’s decision by Cork City Council to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants by 50%.



Cllr Kerins said:



“Last night the council voted to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants from €800,000 last year to €400,000 in 2012. This was despite an amendment tabled by Sinn Féin which would have redirected some of the budget currently allocated for plant hire to maintaining the Grant. There is evidence that much of the machinery hired by the council from outside contractors is currently under-utilised. ”



“The Disabled Person’s Grant is a lifeline for many elderly and disabled people in our communities, providing them with financial assistance to adapt their homes in ways that aid mobility and give them a decent standard of living. The council’s decision to impose such a large reduction in the Grant will mean these tenants are denied basic facilities which they need to live with dignity in their homes.”



For further information or comment contact Cllr Fiona Kerins @ 085-1091758