Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 June 2004
300 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a crèche (details supplied) will receive increased funding to allow it continue its important services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16272/04]
View answerSupport towards staffing costs under the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000 — 2006 is only made available to community based projects which can demonstrate that they are providing child care in areas of significant disadvantage and are supporting parents who are availing of employment, education or training opportunities.
In July 2001, the group in question received a staffing grant of €44,441 for one year, towards the staffing costs of its out of school project. This funding was administered by the former Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs. The group then submitted a further application under the EOCP and, in March 2003, was awarded additional staffing funding of €70,000 over two years, towards the operation of its child care service, which operates full-time out of school term. This funding of €35,000 per annum was considered to be appropriate to the level of service being provided by the group. The Deputy may also be aware that this community based group received capital grant assistance of €2,570 in December 2003. The child care directorate has not received a request from the group to increase this funding level.
