Drowning in a sea of debt

Editorial Department • Published 21 Jan 2011 09:00 0 Comments

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The figures are mind-boggling . Last year a local debt advisor dealt with more than £6 million worth of new debt incurred by people who had come to him for help.

This figure was twice that of the previous year.

With the recession biting, who knows what this year will bring?

From January to December last year, this debt advisor working Fermanagh Citizens’ Advice Bureau (CAB) dealt with 12,608 debt advice issues, compared with 9,253 from the year before.

The amount of money owed by people of this county is staggering and the CAB figures only tabulate those who have actually knocked their door for help.

Shockingly, given the many, many people that the CAB helps, the axe may fall on this most vital service. Despite the overwhelming increase in demand for the service in the last 12 months, there is no certainty that it can remain in place.

The debt project is currently funded by a government department.

This funding period is due to end in March. And ironically, owing to the economic climate, for this very service that will be more sought after than ever, there are concerns that the service may not continue.

Changes to the welfare system and the impact of the Budget Review, mean tough times ahead for people. Business debt is increasing, especially among the construction trade.

Now if ever is the time to back and support this service.

As the Executive argues about a budget, we all hope that they can make the sensible decisions that will not leave vital services like this high and dry.

The debt service at the CAB has been a lifeline for many, many people in despair, offering practical help at a time of desperation.

And as times get tougher, there will be even more people in the position of coming to their door for help.

This article appeared in Impartial Reporter 20 Jan 11

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