Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
169. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of community services awarded the building blocks grants in 2025; the number of these services that have subsequently decided not to proceed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13304/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Building Blocks Extension Grant Scheme was launched in late 2024. The closing date for applications was 30th January 2025. There were four strands to the scheme: Community Construction, Community Extension, Community Purchasing and Private Extension. A total of 78 applications were received with 50 applicants approved to progress to the next stage of the grant process. Following approval, applicants were required to finalise the legal formalities of the scheme and projects are now commencing.
Of the 50 applications which were approved for progression, 43 came from Community services across the country. This represents 86% of all applications approved. These can be broken down into 24 Community Extension projects, 15 Community Construction projects, and four Community Purchasing projects. The remaining seven approved applications came from private services seeking to extend their premises.
Of these 43 community applications, regrettably two community services have since informed the Department that they cannot go ahead with their projects.
Combined, the remaining 41 community projects are anticipated to deliver over 1,200 new full day places for children aged under 3 across Ireland.
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. I expect to announce details of the next Building Blocks scheme in the coming weeks.
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.
