Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh (Kildare South, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1390. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if a course of action is currently being considered on an issue (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11699/25]

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

I am advised that approximately 15% of early learning and childcare provision operates from school premises. The Programme for Government sets out the ambition to work with schools to host before and after-school childcare in school buildings as well as planning the development of State-led early learning and childcare facilities in tandem with the school building programme, specifically referencing Irish medium naíonraí. .

Last year, the Department of Education published Procedures on the use of school property and school sports facilities outside of school hours provides. This document provides encouragement and guidance to schools to make available facilities for early learning and childcare and other community purposes when not required by the school.

I am aware however that there will be instances where classrooms or other school spaces are required for educational provision. In this regard, it may be necessary for Boards of Management to prioritise the provision of school places over early learning and childcare.

My Department does not have capital funding this year to support services in this situation. However, the approach to capital investment in future is being considered in the context of the Programme for Government commitments.

Where services are experiencing challenges with premises, their local County Childcare Committee may be able to provide support to identify alternative accommodation and case management assistance may be provided by Pobal. County Childcare Committees can also support parents to find alternative places for their children as required.