Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 704: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for funding for a group (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10492/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I understand that an application for additional capital grant assistance under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme, EOCP, 2000-2006, was submitted by the group in question to my Department some time ago. The EOCP is a seven year development programme which aims to increase the availability and quality of child care to support parents in employment, education and training.

Following a detailed assessment and appraisal process, I recently approved capital grant assistance of €124,000 in respect of this application. This brings the total capital funding approved to the group to more than €1.4 million. I understand my Department's child care directorate has advised the group of my decision.

Area Development Management Limited has been engaged to administer the grants on behalf of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and will contact the group regarding the conclusion of a contractual agreement which is necessary to draw down the grant.