Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 217: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the reason funding for a development (details supplied) in Dublin 12 was decommitted; when an appeal on this case will be heard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3130/09]

Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The National Childcare Investment Programme (NCIP) 2006 -2010 is implemented by my Office with the assistance of Pobal, who manage the day to day operation of the programme.

Following enquiries made with Pobal, I understand that the group in question were approved capital funding under the NCIP of €1.4 million in April 2007. The applicants were then required to enter into a post-approval process so that they could proceed to signing a contract with Pobal which would allow for the draw-down of the approved funding and commencement of the construction of the project.

I understand that in May 2008, the applicants sought more time to enter into the initial stage of the post-approval process but did not specify a timeframe for the building work to commence. The applicants have since indicated that they may be in a position to sign a contract by February 2009. However, as they are already in breach of the terms of approval, their grant has been decommitted.

I understand that the Group has appealed the decommital decision and that this will be appraised in the coming weeks. Following this appeal process the applicants will be advised of the outcome.