As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the Equal Opportunities Child Care Programme 2000- 2006 (EOCP) and the National Child care Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), which are being implemented by the newly established Office of the Minister for Children.
I am pleased to inform you that the Group in question was recently approved €700,000 in capital grant assistance under the EOCP. The approval of funding is subject to the Group concluding satisfactory contractual arrangements with Pobal, which is engaged to administer the Programme. I understand that the Child care Directorate of my Office has advised the Group of this decision.
The Group also approved staffing continuation funding of €159,800, up to 31 December 2007, in August 2005. I understand that the next payment due will be made to the Group over the coming days.