2875. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will consider providing a capital funding mechanism for community associations seeking to construct new childcare facilities where the association would own the facility but lease its operation to a registered childcare provider; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61070/26]

2876. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality whether a community association which proposes to construct a purpose-built childcare facility, with the service subsequently operated by an independent childcare provider, is eligible for any existing or planned capital funding schemes; and if she will provide details of the funding options available. [61073/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2875 and 2876 together.

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. Core Funding, which is in its fifth 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 Expansion Scheme, which operated in 2024, delivered almost 300 places. The Building Blocks Extension Scheme, which is currently operating, will deliver up to 1,500 quality, affordable full-day care places. Up to €10m has been set aside for the Building Blocks Extension Scheme Phase 2, which will operate in 2027.

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 has begun in 2026 with investment in buildings in what will be a ground-breaking initiative.

The State-led initiative will provide thousands of places up to 2030.

Local City and County Childcare Committees will be supporting the development of projects so in the first instance, community early learning and childcare operators, local authorities, developers, community associations or others who might have a suitable premises or project should contact their local City/County Childcare Committee.

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