Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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604. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when the necessary funding will be provided for the reopening of a facility (details supplied) as previously promised by Government representatives. [7381/18]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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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.

Unfortunately, my Department did not receive a viable proposal for the creation of a childcare service at that time. However, my Department is currently in discussions with Longford CCC with the aim of progressing a procurement process to secure a suitable operator for a childcare service in this area. Funding for a childcare setting remains available pending the outcome of this procurement process.