The Galway Rape Crisis Centre is appealing to local politicians to press for an increase in "Section 65 funding" for voluntary groups.
"Section 65 funding" comprises grants given to voluntary groups in the health care area, through local health boards.
The Rape Crisis Centre, which is one of the applicants, has only narrowly avoided closure this month and is still concerned about its long-term future. Currently, it receives 60 per cent of its running costs from the health board, but the Section 65 funding allocation has not increased in five years.
The Fianna Fáil senator, Ms Margaret Cox, tabled a motion seeking an emergency grant for the centre at this month's Western Health Board meeting. Meanwhile, fundraising efforts by the public, and the promise of €88,000 through the Western Health Board from the Violence Against Women national steering committee, has eased the Galway centre's crisis temporarily.
However, the demands for its assistance have been increasing, with 230 new clients last year and a waiting list of six months for counselling. Consistent, guaranteed finance is a priority if the same situation is not to arise next year, according to its co-ordinator, Ms Agnes Warren.
Early next month, another fundraising effort is being hosted to help the centre. Quiz Aid Challenge has been devised by several employees of C K Business in Galway, along with Mr Jimmy Higgins of Galway Bay FM radio. The quiz will be held in 50 pubs in Galway city and county on Tuesday, July 2nd at 8 p.m., and broadcast live on the local radio station, and the "Grand Final" will take place on July 9th. For details telephone (091) 500531.