Ned O'Keeffe (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 158: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for funding to develop a crèche facility by an organisation (details supplied) in County Cork. [11423/06]

Michael Noonan (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
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Question 160: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received an application from an organisation (details supplied) in County Cork for funding for the provision of a crèche, pre-school, after-school service; if the necessary funding will be provided for this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11425/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 158 and 160 together.

Responsibility for the national child care investment programme has been assigned to the Department of Health and Children as part of establishment of the new office of the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children with special responsibility for children.

With regard to the application for capital grant assistance under the equal opportunities child care programme, I understand the community based group in question submitted an application to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform some time ago. Each application undergoes a thorough assessment by Pobal, formerly ADM Limited, which is engaged to administer the day-to-day operation of the programme, to ensure that it meets the programme's funding criteria. In addition, large scale projects such as the capital development proposed in this instance, undergo an intensive assessment process by an external building consultant.

I understand the application is in the final stages of the appraisal process, following which a decision will be made on funding. The group will be informed of the outcome in due course.