Mother disappointed over delayed disability funding in Donegal

Denise McGahern is upset over the lack of funding for a children's disability services scheme. Her son Jack attended the launch of the scheme in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, last year. McGahern expected the funding would help children like Jack but found out that no money has been allocated. The Disability Services Grant was announced by the Government in October 2023 to support vital services for children with extra needs. However, 17 months later, not a single cent has been paid out. McGahern expressed her disappointment, saying they were used for a ministerial announcement without any real support. Sinn Féin politician Pearse Doherty called the situation cruel and scandalous. He questioned how ministers could announce funding when it did not exist. In response, the Tánaiste acknowledged the issue and promised to release the funds quickly. Simon Harris, the current Minister, stated he regrets the delays. He announced that around €8 million in funding will now be made available to support these important services for children.