Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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299. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth what support his Department can provide to an organisation (details supplied) after its building was condemned due to the presence of defective blocks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20935/24]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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I am aware of this service in Donegal with structural issues because of the presence of defective blocks.

My Department works with Pobal and local CCCs to offer Case Management support to services in difficulty. Through this process, services may also access sustainability funding following an assessment of need. One strand of this funding can support a service with the cost of relocation. A strand of emergency capital for fit-out/renovation of premises or necessary maintenance is currently under development.

I have asked Pobal, and the Donegal CCC to engage with the service’s management board, and investigate any possible relocation options for the service.

A possible new location has been found, and is being reviewed for suitability. If the new location is a feasible option for the service, relocation supports and other accommodations such as a 4 day, 41 week ECCE contract will be supported by my Department.

My Department will continue to engage with Pobal, local Childcare Committees, and services in order to support services who have been affected by mica.

This is a unique situation, and each service will need to be supported on an individual basis.