Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 23: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appeal sent in a person (details supplied) in County Galway concerning an application for funding for a children's creche; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17606/06]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000 — 2006 (EOCP) and the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006 — 2010, which are being implemented by the newly established Office of Minister for Children.

With regard to the application for capital grant assistance under the EOCP referred to by the Deputy, I understand that the private provider in question was not recommended for funding under the EOCP as the project is located in close proximity to a childcare project that has already received EOCP capital funding, and there was a consequential potential for duplication and displacement between the two childcare services.

I am advised that the private provider has submitted an appeal and requested a review in relation to the decision. This appeal is currently undergoing a thorough assessment by Pobal (formerly known as Area Development Management Ltd.), who administer the Childcare Programmes. Following this review a decision will be made and the applicant will be informed of the outcome in due course.