New scheme will support childcare services - Senator

Building Blocks Extension Grant scheme

Fianna Fail Senator Fiona O'Loughlin has welcomed the launch of the €25 million Building Blocks Extension Grant scheme for early learning and childcare providers.
 
O'Loughlin said that the Building Blocks Extension Scheme will deliver additional capacity by supporting existing early learning and childcare Core Funding partner services to extend their premises and it will also allow community services to purchase or construct new premises.
She said: "I am delighted to welcome the launching of the Building Blocks Extension Grant Scheme today. 
"Improving access to childcare and improving the sector for children, their parents and providers has been a key priority of Fianna Fail since entering government in 2020.
"This launch will mean an increase in childcare places here in Kildare.
 
“The application process for the scheme will open this month with funding available from 2025. I strongly encourage all eligible Kildare projects to apply."
 
O'Loughlin further confirmed that Fianna Fail in Government will continue to progress a range of other actions to increase the supply of quality and affordable early learning and childcare including significantly increased investment in the Core Funding scheme and the National Childcare Scheme in 2025 and the introduction of the regulation of childminders since September.