Funding of €155k for childcare services in Offaly

Offaly Fine Gael TD, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy has welcomed the allocation of €155,429 in extra funding for childcare services in Offaly.

“The financial boost comes at a key moment in Ireland's move to accessible affordable quality childcare. I am delighted to announce that local childcare services will receive €155,429 in extra funding,' she said.

“The money will be used to provide new childcare places, maintenance and building work as well as outdoor play areas and is available for immediate draw-down by providers here in Offaly,†she said.

“The provision of quality, affordable and accessible childcare is a priority for Government to ensure that local children get the very best start in life. The Government has announced €8.4m in capital funding through the Department of

Children and Youth Affairs to 683 pre-school providers nationwide; an increase in €4.4m on the amount announced for this programme in March 2017.'

She ended: “This funding will benefit children, families and providers under the Early Years programmes, and will contribute to the development of an infrastructure that is ready to meet the radical new approach to subsidising childcare outlined in Budget 2017â€.