Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
854. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the additional capital funding supports can be availed of for a naíonra and after school service (details supplied) who need to expand capacity very quickly.; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5773/26]
View answerThe Building Blocks Extension Grant Scheme is currently in operation. Successful applicants are in the process of finalising the legal formalities associated with the scheme, with some services already actively delivering their projects.
Following on from the success of the Building Blocks Extension Grant Scheme, a further Building Blocks scheme will open for applications in 2026. This round of capital funding will focus on funding extensions to existing premises to allow for increased numbers of children to be offered places on a full-time basis. Community and private providers who are currently Core Funding partner services will be eligible to apply for this scheme.
I expect to announce details of the next Building Blocks scheme in the next month.
Separately, the Department is embarking on programme of capital investment in State-led early learning and childcare which will make investment in buildings to support the expansion of full day places, particularly for young children. This investment will constitute purchase and/or fit out of buildings depending on the specifics of particular projects. Details of this programme were announced by the Department on 21st January.
