968. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of childcare facilities the State has acquired in County Meath for the years 2020 to 2025, and to date in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34476/26]

In January of this year, I announced €135 million in capital investment in buildings for high-quality, accessible State-led early learning and childcare. The process will begin in 2026 with investment in buildings in what will be a ground-breaking initiative for this government. Capital funding will be used to acquire and/or fit out the building, depending on requirements.

This is a new initiative signalled in last year's Programme for Government and with funding secured in the revised National Development Plan between 2026 and 2030.

Up to eight buildings will be selected for investment this year and the State-led initiative will provide thousands of places up to 2030 using the €135 million provided in the National Development Plan. The level of investment will ramp up over the lifetime of the Government.

The Department is now assessing project options in order to identify which are best placed to deliver on the goals of the programme. Up to eight capital projects will be selected under the programme in 2026. No final decisions have yet been made on the specific projects but I look forward to sharing details of projects as they are agreed.

Local City and County Childcare Committees will be supporting the development of projects. In the first instance, anyone who might have a suitable premises or project should contact their local City/County Childcare Committee whose details can be found here: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/city-and-county-childcare-committees