A forward planning model has been developed by officials in the Department of Children, Disability and Equality to better understand the nature of early learning and childcare supply/demand misalignment and to inform decision making about capital investment. Analysis is ongoing of the data in this model in order to identify areas of undersupply.
The analysis of the Forward Planning model provides a key input into the approach to the capital programme to be resourced through the allocation in the revised National Development Plan 2026-30. The forward planning model has been developed to provide analysis for internal purposes, particularly to inform consideration of capital investment projects as well as wider supply planning.
Each year, Pobal compiles data from Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School Age Childcare (SAC) providers as part of the Early Years Sector Profile. This data is typically collected in May or June of each year. It provides an estimate of the number of children enrolled in ELC and SAC and the percentage of services with at least one vacant place at a given time.
Data are not collated by the Department in the exact manner requested by the Deputy. The most closely aligning data available on capacity in Cork City is summarised below.
The most recent published capacity data for the 2024/25 programme year estimated that there were 5,805 children enrolled in ELC services and 2,808 children enrolled in SAC services in Cork City. The data also indicated that 37% of ELC services and 37% of SAC services had at least one vacant place.
The Department has not been notified of any existing provider in Ballincollig withdrawing or reducing afterschool capacity. Through Case Management supports, the Department will assist providers with interpreting aspects of their business model including analysis of staff ratios and cash flow, as well as more specialised advice and support appropriate to individual circumstances. Sustainability funding will enhance Core Funding by providing supports to services who are in most in need of financial assistance ensuring the delivery of high-quality early learning and childcare.
The sustainability fund for service providers is a support mechanism introduced to ensure the stability and viability of early learning and childcare services for those participating in the Core Funding model. The fund is accessed through a collaborative process involving the service, their local City/County Childcare Committee (CCC), and Pobal, who assess financial eligibility and need.
I would encourage any service experiencing difficulty and who would like support, to contact their CCC.
Contact details for their local CCC can be found at www.myccc.ie.
