This article is from page 18 of the 2012-10-09 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 18 JPG
CLARE County Council may be strapped for cash but it recognises there are people much worse off in the country that need “a helping hand”.
As a result it will propose that the Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, and the Government to set up a voluntary organisation or foundation entitled A Helping Hand, which will do exactly what it says in the title.
The brainchild of West Clare councillor Gabriel Keating (FG), the purpose of the organisation is to provide financial support to the most vulnerable people in society.
It is proposed that the organisation would seek financial aid from the wealthy and better off in Ireland and abroad, and it would also devise other ways and means to meet its targets through sponsored projects or fund raising events.
“As the recession continues all voluntary organisations have seen an increase in the numbers of people seeking help. Voluntary organisations are not immune from the recession and they have witnessed a dip in donations from ordinary individuals and as well as that corpo- rate donations are not as regular as they were during the good times.
“Through our history we have a reputation for helping people all over the world. When other countries suffer disasters such as famine, earthquakes or tsunamis, Irish people continue to respond generously. Here at home, somehow people continue to respond generously to the many deserving causes, promoted by organisations such as West Clare Cancer Support and many others.
“In the early years of our freedom and independence we built new hospitals and institutions to help the sick. These were funded by an Annual Irish Sweepstake Draw that attracted worldwide support,” said the councillor.
“While the Lotto was set up since 1987 to help fund good causes, I believe that it is clear now at this point in our history that a National Voluntary Organisation – made up of people with vision, talent and imagination – is needed to bridge the gap in funding for those who are most in need.”
The Helping Hand Foundation by the Government would target the financially well off for funding.
“I am thinking par ticularly of wealthy Irish people who are now living abroad and who would love to contribute to this countr y but maybe they have never been asked. It would also utilize people who have a proven track record in volunteering and through their work have earned respect from the people such as reti red presidents, bishops and people in public life, entertainment and sport.
“In these very difficult times or recession and hardship we cannot and must not forget the most vulnerable in our society. We must extend a helping hand to those who most need it,” he said.