Thomas Gould (Cork North-Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1367. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for an update on the reopening of Before 5. [11393/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My Department, Pobal, Cork City Childcare Committee, Northside Community Enterprise and other stakeholders continue to work closely to deliver early learning and childcare service in the Churchfield site, formally occupied by Before 5.

My Department approved funding for the revival of this service in October 2024 and I am informed that work has commenced on the early stages of this project. While all stakeholders are keen to open this service, it is not currently possible to confirm an opening date at this stage. It is dependent on several factors such as public procurement requirements, availability of contractors and regulatory obligations.

With detailed project plans and funding in place, all stakeholders are committed to the completion of the project to provide high quality early learning and childcare to the community as soon as possible.