Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 April 2026
163. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality for an update on the review of the 2001 planning guidelines for local authorities on early learning and childcare settings, in order to increase childcare supply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29074/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 2001 Planning Guidelines for Local Authorities on Childcare Facilities were issued under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. These guidelines, which remain in operation, are intended to ensure a consistent approach to the treatment of planning applications in respect to the land use planning aspects of early learning and childcare provision.
The Programme for Government commits to reviewing the guidelines to ensure early learning and childcare spaces are provided and put into use. The Planning and Development Act 2024 and the revised National Planning Framework, along with the ongoing work on Shaping the Future, the Phase 2 action plan for the development of the early learning and childcare sector, provide a strong basis from which to pursue this work.
In order to progress the Programme for Government commitment, an Early Learning and Childcare Planning Matters Working Group was established in 2024 and has met a number of times since then. It includes officials from the Department; the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage; and the Department of Education and Youth.
Members of the Group have also met with local authority planning officials, nominated by the County and City Management Association Planning and Land Use Committee to identify important considerations for the review. These considerations include ensuring that buildings developed on foot of the guidelines meet the needs of the local population and are fit for purpose; and balancing the need to ensure sufficient provision for children and families, regardless of the size or housing type of the development, with ensuring that buildings are effectively operated as intended.
These issues will inform a wider engagement with local authorities and other stakeholders which is currently at planning stage.
Separately, the Department has being liaising with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the planning process as set out in the Planning and Development Regulations 2001. I can advise that the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has confirmed that the Minister for Children, Equality and Disability will be designated as a prescribed body to be notified by local authorities of planning applications that might give rise to a change in the demand for early learning and childcare provision.
I will continue to engage with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to discuss how best to support the implementation of the existing guidelines and inform the drafting of revised guidance under the new Planning and Development Act 2024.
