By Anne-Marie Walsh

Copyright independent

The workers are concerned that government hints of tough times could mean funding for their services – and ultimately their jobs – is in jeopardy.

Working hours have already been cut, Siptu divisional organiser Brendan O’Brien said.

He added that a rural development programme in Kerry is seeking a 50pc reduction in hours by next year.

There are also pressures on payroll at a community employment scheme in Wexford that have led to discussions about headcount and pay after recent reductions in material grants.

Siptu is backing a campaign that will begin with a meeting in the Brandon Hotel in Tralee this week.

It claims there are “chronic funding uncertainties, the erosion of job security and the risk to vital services on which thousands depend”.

Siptu is not planning ballots, but wants assurances from the Government that funding is safe as budgets are framed for the coming years.

People worry that it will put them out front to bear the brunt of those cuts

“The type of schemes we’re talking about run right across the gamut from job activation schemes to community employment, social support schemes in disadvantaged areas to mental health services,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Then you have community-type schemes where workers are supporting GAA clubs with maintenance. Otherwise, they may not be able to afford to pay for it.

“If the Government is sending out vibes about economic concerns, if it is going to make cutbacks, people worry that it will put them out front to bear the brunt of those cuts.

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“We need the Government to come out and say that if we are heading into stormy waters, the community and voluntary service will not bear the brunt of this, in clear and unambiguous language.”

North, East and West Kerry Development rural development officer John Loughrey said the campaign aims to draw attention to the kind of work the community sector does.

He said this includes after-school programmes for children, family resource centres, services for older people and addiction supports.

A Department of Health spokesperson said the Programme for Government commits to increase funding for the national Meals on Wheels network as well as developing a plan to ensure there are providers in every town in the country.

They said Meals on Wheels funding has increased by close to 80pc over the last few years, from €3.5m in 2022 to a current budget of €6.25m.