Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2024
470. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his Department records the number of early years facilities affected by mica, pyrite, defective concrete blocks, and other construction defects, respectively; if such data is publicly available, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40169/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department works with Pobal and local Childcare Committees to offer Case Management Supports to services in difficulty. Through this process, services may also access Sustainability Funding following an assessment of need. One strand of this funding can support a service with the cost of relocation. Services who experience issues with defective blocks or construction issues are encouraged to contact their local City/County Childcare Committee (CCC).
In the first instance the local CCC will assist the service in trying to source a suitable alternative location. If a suitable alternative location is sourced, my Department will engage with Pobal and the CCC regarding the service, and will assist in funding a relocation through the Case Management Process.
My Department is aware of 3 services who have engaged their CCC as they have been affected by mica.
The safety of children and staff is paramount, and the Department has been assured that services will not be able to operate if it is deemed unsafe to do so.
