969. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to outline supports available to those who want to open new childcare services; if any new measures are being considered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34477/26]

The Department supports the ongoing development of existing and new services in the sector through its range of funding schemes and support infrastructure including City and County Childcare Committees.

In particular the Core Funding scheme, which has operated since 2022, offers supply side funding to services.

The Department continues to support the ongoing development and resourcing of Core Funding which has given rise to a significant expansion of places since the scheme was first introduced. Core Funding, which is in its fourth programme year, funds services based on the number of places available.

This provides stability to services, and reduces the risk associated with opening a new service or expanding an already existing service.

The Government is also supporting the expansion of capacity through capital funding. The Building Blocks Extension Grant Scheme is designed to increase capacity in the 1–3-year-old, pre–Early Childhood Care and Education, age range for full day care. Core Funding Partner Services could apply for capital funding to physically extend their premises or to construct or purchase new premises.  The Scheme will deliver up to 1,500 full-day care places for 1- to 3-year-olds.

Following on from the success of the Building Blocks Extension Grant Scheme, a further Building Blocks scheme will open for applications in 2026. The Building Blocks Extension Scheme Phase 2 will provide grants for community and private early learning and childcare services who are Core Funding partner services to increase their capacity by means of extensions to their existing premises.

Separately, in January I announced €135 million of capital investment over the coming five years for State-led services to provide high-quality, accessible early learning and childcare. The process will begin in 2026 with investment in buildings in what will be a ground-breaking initiative.

Up to eight buildings will be selected for investment this year. The State-led initiative will provide thousands of places up to 2030.

The Department also funds 30 City/County Childcare Committees, which provide support and assist families and early learning and childcare providers. The network of 30 City/County Childcare Committees across the country can assist operators who are considering establishing a new early learning and childcare service or expanding existing provision.

The contact details for the City/County Childcare Committees may be found here: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/city-and-county-childcare-committees/