Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

666. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if progress has been made in efforts to reopen a child care facility (details supplied) in County Longford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39634/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, my Department does not directly provide childcare - rather we fund the provision of childcare through individuals, companies and community/not-for-profit groups. Therefore, following the closure of the existing childcare provider in this location, I requested that Pobal and Longford CCC work with local bodies and potential partners in relation to the re-establishment of a service for the local community. I also made once-off funding available in this respect.

Unfortunately, my Department has yet to receive a viable proposal for the creation of a childcare service in this area. Pobal and Longford CCC are therefore still pursuing options locally in this regard. Once-off funding remains in place, and I am open to receiving proposals from local/community groups who may be in a position to assist.