Kildare childcare shortage
Deputy Ó Cearúil highlighted Kildare's lack of community-based childcare facilities and long waiting lists, citing a government commitment to expand state-owned provision. The Taoiseach acknowledged the county's rapid growth, joked about the Deputy's crèche background, and said he would discuss the issue with the relevant Ministers.
County Kildare has the lowest rate of community-based childcare facilities, with three in total and only two of those in Kildare North, one of which is Maynooth University crèche. To give a sense of how long it has been there, I attended it myself. This is in spite of 48% of childcare services having waiting lists in Kildare. I have raised multiple parliamentary questions about this. However, in the programme for Government there is a commitment for capital investment to build or purchase State-owned childcare facilities where demand exceeds supply. It is very clear that Kildare has a huge demand. I ask that consideration is given to prioritise Kildare when it comes to State-led childcare facilities.
Comment on this
I thank Deputy Ó Cearúil. Obviously, Maynooth University crèche must have been of a very high standard given the manner in which the Deputy has come through ever since, right into Dáil Éireann.
Comment on this
I have just been informed that building blocks have now been suggested. In any event, I will talk to the Minister, Deputy Foley, and to the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, about Kildare and its needs. It is probably one of the fastest growing counties in the country and clearly it is no surprise to me that the demand is quite high there.