226. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to provide an update in relation to the independent finance and governance review of an organisation (details supplied), given correspondence has now been issued and a resolution passed to place the company into voluntary liquidation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15343/26]

The Board of the organisation in question informed the public funders of the organisation, including the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, on 17 February 2026 that, following an emergency meeting of the Board and Members, a resolution has been passed to place the Company into voluntary liquidation on the grounds of insolvency.

This was a deeply regrettable development as for over 40 years, the organisation had played an important role in supporting members of the Traveller community and advocating for equality, inclusion and improved outcomes in areas such as accommodation support, education, training and employment, and Traveller healthcare and youth services to local Traveller families.

The main public funding organisations are the Health Service Executive (HSE), the relevant Education and Training Board and the Department of Social Protection, with an allocation also coming from the Department of Children, Disability and Equality to support and enable front line service delivery.

The Department of Children, Equality and Disability has contributed to State funding and supports to assist the organisation in delivering vital services for many years. However, over a period of time governance and financial challenges have been the focus of concern and attention for all State funders. Notwithstanding these concerns, and to ensure that the organisation could continue to provide services, all funders continued to make funding available while allowing the identified issues to be addressed.

All of the funders of the organisation have a responsibility to ensure that public funds are used appropriately, transparently and in line with good governance standards. The effective stewardship of public resources is essential not only for accountability, but also to maintain public trust and to safeguard the continuity of services for vulnerable communities. It was for that reason that the public funders commissioned an independent finance and governance review of the company which commenced in mid-October 2025. That review has not been completed as at the time of the Board’s announcement.The Department of Children, Equality and Disability acknowledges the staff, volunteers and community members who worked with commitment and dedication over many years to advance the rights and wellbeing of Travellers in the local area concerned. Their efforts, often in challenging circumstances, have made a difference to many lives.

Each of the State funders will assess the implications of the Board’s decision and will be conscious of the need to ensure services are delivered to the community. It is vital that services and advocacy supports remain accessible and that the needs of the Traveller community continue to be prioritised and met.