Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
47. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his Department has any immediate plans for sourcing a temporary location for a crèche that got flooded during Storm Babet recently (details supplied); if he will give financial supports to the crèche to help it get back on its feet as the owner was unable to obtain flood insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48223/23]
View answerI am conscious of the disruption caused to a number of early learning and childcare services, owing the recent floods in Cork and I am aware that the local Childcare Committee has been engaging with impacted services.
With regard to financial supports for these services, they have been made aware that any service forced to close due to the flooding may apply for the continuation of funding from my Department under force majeure as per the rules governing the early learning and childcare funding schemes.
These services have also been alerted to two Emergency Business Flooding Schemes which were recently announced by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, T.D.. These schemes are for small businesses, sports clubs, community, and voluntary organisations unable to secure flood insurance and affected by recent flooding.
There are other supports available from my Department where a service is experiencing financial difficulty or has concerns about their viability. These supports can be accessed through the local Childcare Committee.
With regard to premises, the safety and protection of children remains the first priority in the early learning and care sector. This is achieved through the registration and inspection of early years services by Tusla, the independent statutory regulator of the sector.
Registration of early years services can be granted only where Tusla is satisfied that the premises, operation and location of the service pose no unmanaged risk to children. I understand Tusla has already been working closely with the local Childcare Committee in areas impacted by recent floods. Tusla are happy to engage with impacted services in these area and will work with them to help them to reopen their service in a safe and suitable premises and location.
