Childcare Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024

Tuesday, 9 April 2024

Questions (1164)

Michael Lowry

Question:

1164. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth concerning the Building Blocks – Expansion Grant Scheme, which is part of a wider Building Blocks Capital Programme for Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare, if he will confirm when an application from (details supplied) will be validated; if the applicant will be given the opportunity to submit additional documentation or provide clarity on their application if the same is required; when can the provider expect a decision to be issued on the same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15134/24]

Written answers

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

On 22nd February, I was pleased to announce an €18 million capital grant scheme which will provide for an increase in affordable Early Learning and Care places. The primary focus of the Expansion Grant Scheme is to increase capacity in the 1-3 year old (pre-ECCE) age range for full-day and part-time care. This will be achieved by funding projects that reconfigure or internally renovate existing Early Learning and Childcare services to accommodate children in this age category. 

Applications for the Expansion Grant opened on the 22nd February 2024 and closed on 3rd April 2024.  

Pobal, who are administering the scheme on my Department's behalf, has now commenced the appraisal of all applications received and applicants will be notified of the outcome of the appraisal in due course. 

I am advised that the submission of applications and supporting documentation is only permitted during the application window and when window closes, it is not possible submit late applications, amend submitted applications or provide additional documentation. The service may wish to engage with Pobal in this regard.