Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 October 2021
140. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he recognises the supports offered by parent and toddler groups; the way he plans to support such groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48701/21]
View answerI fully recognise that local Parent and Toddler Groups are providing support to parents, grandparents and childminders, as well as to young children throughout the country. These groups are an important source of social contact especially for new parents and families new to a community.
My Department funds a national network of County Childcare Committees (CCCs) who work directly both with existing Parent and Toddler groups and in supporting the set-up of new groups.
In 2021 my Department made €250,000 available to support Parent and Toddler Groups, this funding seeks to support the establishment and operation of such groups through financial assistance in areas such as training for parents, purchase of equipment and/or contributions towards insurance, rent or minor refurbishment.
The CCC’s are responsible for the promotion, assessment and administration of the Parent and Toddler grants at a local level and provide information which promotes the provision of a quality service, they can also signpost participants to other useful agencies or organisations.
Applications for the 2021 Parent and Toddler grant closed on 10 September however any individual or group interested in setting up a Parent & Toddler group in 2022 can contact their local CCC for advice and support.
Contact details for all CCCs are available at myccc.ie
