As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP) and the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), which are being implemented by the newly established Office of the Minister for Children.
The four projects referred to by the Deputy have been approved a total of € 4.5 million in capital grant assistance. These approvals are subject to further development of the proposals and external appraisal by a building specialist. All four groups have been in contact with and are receiving support from Limerick County Childcare Committee. I understand that they are working together to reduce the costs of their projects. I have also met with representatives from the Groups and discussed how they might further progress their projects.
I am advised that two of the projects in question have submitted applications for additional funding and these requests are currently under appraisal. Each application undergoes a thorough assessment by Pobal, formerly known as Area Development Management Ltd., who administers the Programme. Following these assessments, applications are considered by the Programme Appraisal Committee, before a decision is made regarding funding. The Groups will be informed of the outcome of their request for additional funding in due course.