Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2026
960. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the engagement her Department will have with the Land Development Agency as part of the move to State acquisition of childcare buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10396/26]
View answerI recently announced €135 million in capital investment in buildings for high-quality, accessible State-led early learning and childcare. The process will begin in 2026 with investment in buildings in what will be a ground-breaking initiative for this government. Capital funding will be used to acquire and/or fit out the building, depending on requirements.
Up to eight buildings will be selected for investment this year and the State-led initiative will provide thousands of places up to 2030 using the €135 million provided in the National Development Plan. The level of investment will ramp up over the lifetime of the Government.
The Department is in discussions with local authorities and State agencies, including the Land Development Agency, about the potential for collaborative partnerships to deliver this programme, including acquiring buildings in some instances.
This Department is assessing sites and buildings and, where required, will seek expressions of interest from operators to deliver these State-led services. Advanced discussions are ongoing with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council in relation to the early learning and care facility at the Shanganagh Castle Estate, which was delivered by the Land Development Agency, and a range of other projects are also being considered.
