Written answer
Ministerial Communications
The Department approved sustainability funding, but the childcare service’s board must engage with Pobal or decide to close; a complaint is under review.
486. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to examine correspondence (details supplied). [66361/26]
Comment on this
Following engagement with Dublin City Childcare Committee and Pobal in July, the Department received and approved a sustainability funding request from Pobal on 7 September. Pobal are currently seeking engagement with the remaining Board Director around their intentions for the service and if they wish to keep the service open.
It is worth noting that the Department does not directly operate or manage early learning and childcare or school age childcare services. Decisions about the day-to-day running of services, ultimately lie with the Board of Directors. In this instance, it is a decision for the Board of Directors whether to fully engage with the Department’s Case Management and Sustainability funding process or to wind down the service.
Should the Board of Directors choose to wind down the service, Dublin City Childcare Committee can provide contact information for parents should they need help to secure alternative places. Parents/guardians can also use the following website to find Core Funding Partner Services in their area at www.ncs.gov.ie/en/childcare-search/.
In relation to the complaint outlined in the Chairperson’s letter of resignation, this has been brought to the attention of Pobal and the Department has been informed they are looking into the matter. Subsequent updates on the issue can be found through contacting Pobal’s Complaints and Comments department.
While it is acknowledged that the service is experiencing considerable difficulty, it is important to note that financial sustainability supports are contingent upon a service engaging with the Case Management process in the first instance. The reason for this approach is to ensure that financial interventions have a meaningful impact while also safeguarding exchequer funds.
Once a service engages with their local City/County Childcare Committee, they will be able to avail of supports through the case management process. Through this process, local City/County Childcare Committees and Pobal work together to assess and provide support to Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare services experiencing difficulties.
I would encourage any service having trouble and who would like support should contact their CCC. Contact details for all City and County Childcare Committees are available on the gov.ie website.