Vol. 566 No. 4
225 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if funding is available for a childrens playgroup in Enniscrone, County Sligo; the amount of funding that will be allocated; when it will be granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13071/03]
The equal opportunities child care programme makes capital grant assistance available to community based-not-for-profit groups and to private child care providers to create new or enhanced child care places which address the needs of parents in reconciling their child care needs with their participation in employment, training or education. Staffing grants are available to assist community based projects which focus on disadvantaged families.
I am informed by the childcare directorate of my Department that, to date, no application has been received from any group in this area which matches the details provided by the Deputy.
Should an application be received, it will undergo a thorough assessment and appraisal to ensure it meets the criteria of the equal opportunities child care programme, which include: to increase the number of child care facilities and places; to enhance the quality of child care provision in the locality; to allow parents to avail of educational, training or employment opportunities; and to ensure that the development of childcare facilities are co-ordinated at local level where appropriate.
It will then be considered by the programme appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, before I make a final decision on the committee's recommendation.
