Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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547. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for an update on the funding proposal by NCE for a facility (details supplied) in Churchfield, Cork. [41236/24]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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I am aware of the issues facing Northside Community Enterprises (NCE) and of the funding that they require to support the re-opening of the Before 5 Family Centre in Churchfield, Co. Cork.

The Before 5 Family Centre is in an area of under supply and of high need, so the ambition of NCE to reopen this Centre, with an extended offer of full time, full year places for children under three as well as places for school-going children, is very welcome.

Having met with NCE representatives in Cork, I clarified that the capital funding I announced for the early learning and childcare sector earlier this year under the National Development Plan, funds the expansion of existing services and does not apply to the scenario that NCE finds itself in with the Before 5 Family Centre.

However, I did confirm that I am working within my Department to look at what solutions can be found to support NCE with reopening this vital service for the Churchfield community. Following engagement by Pobal and the local Childcare Committee with NCE on the matter, I am pleased to advise the Deputy that a solution has been identified and Pobal are currently working on the final details of this with the service.