Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies for their questions. Regarding the programme implementation board and the appointment of a new chair, no decision has yet been made on the appointment of a chair but I would very much welcome any suggestions or nominations that Members may have, perhaps on a confidential basis. It can be difficult to approach people for these roles. The enthusiasm for taking on this kind of work is not what it used to be for all sorts of obvious reasons, but any suggestions from Deputies would be dealt with confidentially and welcomed.

I reiterate that the Government is fully committed to the important work that has been under way in Dublin's north east inner city to oversee the long-term social and economic regeneration of the area. The north east inner city programme implementation board and subgroups, established following the publication of the Mulvey report and which comprise Government Departments and agencies alongside community representatives, will continue this work and ensure sustained momentum for the many initiatives being driven under the board's programme of work. Arrangements will be made for the appointment of a new chairperson for the implementation board. As I mentioned, I will advise the Government of a nominee in due course. In the interim, the work of the board will continue with the assistance of the Department.

Regarding the letter to which Deputy McDonald referred, I have not yet seen it. I am sure the Deputy's inbox is as big as mine and on any given day, I could receive 100 emails and letters, if not more, coupled with requests for meetings. They will all be responded to as soon as we can get to them.

I was asked about childcare and school provision. The early learning and care component of the Sheriff Street crèche and after-school education support programme, formerly on Sheriff Street, closed after the landlord informed the service in May 2020 that the lease of the premises would not be renewed after 30 June. The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is looking at the wider implications for capacity in the area. However, affordable alternative premises have proved difficult to secure. Several options have been explored by the service but were found to be unsuitable in terms of size and affordability. The Dublin city childcare committee, in consultation with other stakeholders, is continuing to consider options in the area to minimise the risk that local families will not be able to secure appropriate early learning and care placements, should the need arise.

See this speech in context