Deputy Joan Burton, Labour TD for Dublin West, has raised in the Dáil the urgent situation currently facing the Blanchardstown Centre of the Unemployed, who have been renting office space at the Corduff Shopping Centre and are are facing a fourfold increase in rent.

“Due to a change of ownership of the Shopping Centre, the Blanchardstown Centre for the Unemployed has been advised that the cost of renting their office space will be increased to the current market rates, resulting in a fourfold increase in the rent.” I am informed that this increase is one that they cannot possibly meet from their meager budget from FÁS” said Deputy Burton.

“It is essential that the Blanchardstown Centre for the Unemployed finds alternative premises in the Dublin 15 area. If an affordable alternative is not found it will result in its closure with the loss of twenty six part-time and three full time jobs. I am calling on the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin TD, to ensure that the Blanchardstown Centre of the Unemployed finds alternative accommodation to meet their needs.”, said Deputy Burton.

The Blanchardstown Centre of the Unemployed is funded through FAS and local fundraising and has provided an Information, Education & Training Services since 1995. These services have expanded and to date includes a Mobile Information Service. This Service alone received over 12,900 queries in 2004 and continues to be of enormous benefit to the area in 2005. The services are concentrated on the areas in Blanchardstown that have the highest levels of disadvantage and marginalisation. Other services provided include, a community newsletter, CV design and typing, assistance to jobseekers in making job applications, photocopying, computer training, on the job training for long term unemployed, assistance in re-entering the workplace. The organisation promotes equality and empowerment by enabling people to make decisions based on accurate information and education.

“The Blanchardstown Centre for the Unemployed wishes to continue to provide these valuable services to the people of the Dublin 15 area”, said Deputy Burton, “particularly, to local people who need social welfare, education, training and employment information.”