Labour councillor Peter O’Neill blames Government for volunteer group’s troubles

A COUNCILLOR has blamed Government cuts for a decision to axe funding for a voluntary organisation in Huddersfield.

Voluntary Action Kirklees (VAK), based at Lord Street, provides support and helps to develop voluntary groups.

But it is facing the axe after 35 years after Kirklees Council withdrew its funding of £200,000 a year.

Patricia Plowman, from VAK, last night urged councillors to change their minds.

Speaking at the full meeting of Kirklees Council, she said: “It would be appreciated if the council would reconsider.”

But Peter O’Neill, Labour Cabinet member for adults and communities, said: “The massive cuts imposed on us by the current Government are far in excess of anything we could have planned for.

“You should think about where you direct your protests. They are the ones who have forced the cuts on us.”