Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

370. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will review a case (details supplied); the options available to this provider to accommodate the numbers approaching their centre in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44805/17]

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

My Department is committed to further developing the annual Early Years Capital programme in respect of the needs of children and providers. In 2017, for example, a total of €8.4 million was allocated in Early Years Capital funding to create new childcare places as well as increasing the quality of childcare facilities. This funding was allocated in a competitive application process of which 683 providers nationwide received funding. An appeals process for the 2017 Early Years Capital Programme was operated by Pobal where unsuccessful applicants could request to have the decision on their original application reconsidered. These decisions are currently being communicated to individual providers.

In relation to the particular case you reference, following an appeals process the original decision was upheld and this decision is final.

I have secured €6.86 million in Capital funding that will be made available in 2018 across Early Years Capital and School Age Capital Programmes. These programmes are currently under development, the details of which will be announced later this year. I would invite the particular service to apply for the Capital 2018 programme once it is launched and would encourage them to contact their local CCC for guidance.