Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 114: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on a proposal (details supplied) in view of its importance to the community; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14552/09]

Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the National Childcare Investment Programme (NCIP) 2006 - 2010.

I understand that the person in question received approval in 2008, for capital grant funding under the National Childcare Investment Programme (NCIP) 2006 -2010, to develop a childcare service in Castledermot, Co Kildare. I also understand that the applicant does not wish to proceed with the grant application and is proposing that consideration is given to transferring the grant approval to a community childcare provider, presumably with a view to enabling the community provider to purchase the premises.

Each grant application is considered on its merits and it would not be normal practice to transfer approval for funding in the manner proposed. However, I understand that the matter has been referred to Pobal, who are responsible for the day to day operation of the NCIP on behalf of my Office, for examination and report. When a report is received from Pobal, a decision will be taken in regard to the applicant's request and he will be informed of the outcome as soon as possible thereafter.