The relationship between NGOs and the State

Sir, – Contrary to what Collette Bennett seems to imply, most people have no problem with the concept and activities of NGOs and charities that are formed to bridge gaps that sometimes arise between the provision of vital services and those in need (Letters, April 9th). But the situation in Ireland has morphed into something completely different. Rather than filling gaps, charities have morphed into primary agencies for the delivery of many social goods and services that ought to be under the direct control of the State, with a Government Minister taking full responsibility and accountable to the public at large.

What many people most certainly have difficulty with is Ms Bennett’s assertion that NGOs and charities are “partners” to the Government in the “delivery of essential health, social, and community services”. It seems charities and NGOs here now see themselves as deliverers of core services rather than attending to those who fall through unavoidable cracks in the system. This is a very dangerous concept that allows Government Ministers to take a back seat and the result of that is plain for all to see. The housing crisis, for example, stands out particularly. The provision of social and affordable housing was handed over to charities as part of the sweeping housing policy changes introduced 20 years ago. We now have a staggering 500 approved housing charities.

Putting the case for less charity and more justice was never more urgently needed. – Yours, etc,

JIM O’SULLIVAN,