Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2026
495. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if her Department has identified any buildings for the purpose of developing after school childcare in north Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18209/26]
View answerImproving access to quality and affordable Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare is a key priority of Government. I 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. There will be a particular focus in the new state-led facilities on providing places for 1-3 year old children because this is where the need is greatest. The Department is assessing sites and buildings which align with the goals of the programme and, where required, will seek expressions of interest from operators to deliver these State-led services. No final decisions have yet been made on the specific projects. Local City and County Childcare Committees will be supporting the development of projects. In the first instance, we are asking anyone who might have a suitable premises or project to contact their local City/County Childcare Committee. Information on the objectives, criteria, and processes that will apply to the selection and prioritisation of projects under this programme is available here: State led Early Learning and Childcare Capital Programme. www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/state-led-early-learning-and-childcare-capital-programme/.
