'This is about fairness': Longford has 'highest level of need' for Family Resource Centre

Fine Gael Deputy Micheál Carrigy has raised urgent questions in the Dáil regarding the lack of funding for a Family Resource Centre in Longford town, despite overwhelming evidence of need.

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Longford town, with a population of 10,000, has:

• The highest truancy levels in the State by population
• The highest number of referrals to Tusla
• One of the most diverse populations in the country

Despite these stark facts, Longford was unsuccessful in its recent application for funding, even after submitting a comprehensive needs assessment prepared in collaboration with all local organisations working on the ground.

Deputy Carrigy highlighted that:

“The need we have for a Family Resource Centre has been proven. We have a building, and we have a board, but we do not have the money. Despite having the highest level of need across all indicators in the country, we were not successful in securing funding.”

Deputy Carrigy pressed for a clear Government commitment that Budget 2026 will provide additional funding for new Family Resource Centres and that Longford will finally secure the support it urgently requires.

Responding in the Dáil, Deputy Jim O’Callaghan acknowledged the vital role played by Family Resource Centres nationwide and noted that five new centres have been announced this year. He confirmed that he would raise the matter directly with the Minister for Education, Norma Foley TD, and return with a more detailed response.

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Deputy Carrigy concluded:

“This is about fairness for Longford families. The case has been made beyond doubt. A Family Resource Centre in Longford town is not just desirable – it is essential. I will continue to press this issue until the funding is delivered.”