Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 160: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position in the case of a group (details supplied) in County Tipperary which has applied for a staffing grant for their community playgroup. [26422/06]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

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 the Minister for Children.

With regard to the appeal for staffing grant assistance under the EOCP referred to by the Deputy, I understand from inquiries I have made that this appeal is currently in the final stages of the appraisal process. Following this review, the application will be considered by the Programme Appraisal Committee and a recommendation made to the Secretary General of the Department of Health and Children, before a decision is made regarding funding. The Group in question will be informed of the decision in due course.