Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire. My Adjournment matter is simple. The recent announcement to allocate €45 million to child care sounds like a lot of money but, by the time it is divided up around the country, it will be disbursed before long. Only two child care facilities received allocations in Carlow-Kilkenny, in Kells, County Kilkenny and in Loughlinbridge. I congratulate Loughlinbridge on receiving its allocation of more than €700,000. This was a reflection of the hard work done there over the past two years. A lot of work remains to be done. It will be gratifying to see such a child care facility in Loughlinbridge.

However, as in other areas of life, there are winners and losers. Shanagarry Community Childcare Limited was unfortunate in not receiving funding in this year's allocation. The Minister might clarify the reason for this lack of success. It will, I hope, reapply next year, in which case it will learn from its experience to ensure it receives funding.