Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 680: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if additional grant aid will be provided for the capital construction and staffing of a crèche facility at the institute of technology, Dromtacker, Tralee, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10759/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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As the Deputy may be aware, responsibility for the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 has been assigned to the Department of Health and Children as part of the establishment of the new Office of the Minister for Children under the Minister of State with responsibility for children, Deputy Brian Lenihan.

With regard to the application for capital grant assistance under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, I understand that the community-based group in question was approved capital funding of €700,000 in March 2005. I also understand that the group has sought additional capital grant assistance and that this appeal is in the final stages of the appraisal process. When this process has been completed, the group will be informed of the outcome.

With regard to an application for staffing grant assistance, I understand that, while the group has indicated that it will apply for such a grant, there is no record of a formal application being received to date.