Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 486: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on correspondence (details supplied); the action he will take to assist the group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23778/05]

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 541: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on correspondence (details supplied) on funding for child care facilities; if he will investigate the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23953/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 486 and 541 together.

On 22 June 2005, I approved additional capital grant assistance of €130,000 under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme, EOCP, 2000-2006, in respect of an application from the group in question. This brings the total capital amount approved to date to this community-based group to €1,130,000.

The approval of additional capital grant assistance is subject to the group's satisfactory compliance with a number of conditions regarding the development and completion of the project. I understand the group has been advised of my decision, by the child care directorate of my Department.

Area Development Management Limited, which is engaged to administer the EOCP on my behalf, will be in contact directly with the group regarding the conclusion of a contractual agreement which is necessary in order to draw down the grant. The Deputy may be aware the community-based group in question was also awarded a staffing grant of €146,250, over three years in November 2004.