Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
150. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the likely timeline for when State-led learning centres could be seen in our communities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13387/26]
View answerLast month, I announced €135 million in capital investment in buildings for high-quality, accessible State-led early learning and childcare up to 2030. 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 buildings, depending on requirements.
The level of investment will ramp up over the lifetime of the Government. The initial approach is on purchasing and refurbishment of buildings given that this is a faster route to delivery in the short term. However, the option of building new facilities will also be considered over subsequent years.
The Department is assessing sites and buildings and, where required, will seek expressions of interest from operators to deliver these State-led services.
Up to eight capital projects will be selected under the programme in 2026. No final decisions have yet been made on the specific projects but I look forward to sharing details of projects as they are agreed.
Local City and County Childcare Committees will be supporting the development of projects so in the first instance, community early learning and childcare operators, local authorities, developers, or others who might have a suitable premises or project should contact their local City/County Childcare Committee, whose details can be found at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/city-and-county-childcare-committees/
