As the Deputy is 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.
I understand that the Group in question has submitted an application for additional capital finding under the EOCP. I understand from enquiries I have made that this application is under appraisal. Each application undergoes a thorough assessment by Pobal, formerly known as Area Development Management Ltd., which is engaged to administer the Programme.
Following completion of the assessment, the application will be considered by the Programme Appraisal Committee, before a decision is made regarding funding. The Group will be informed of the outcome of the assessment in due course.