€173,000 crèche grants to help parents and children ‘feel at home’

TWO childcare facilities in Waterford are to get a major boost under the latest round of funding for crèche nation-wide.

Waterford Fianna Fáil TD Ollie Wilkinson has said two childcare providers in Tramore and Cappoquin have been allocated almost €173,000 between them, to carry out building works necessary to meet the need for more crèche places in both towns.

Mr Wilkinson said Ladybird Preschool and Crèche in Moonvoy, Tramore, received €60,712, while Cappoquin Community Development Co Ltd got €112,200 in capital grants.

“With record numbers of people going to work each day and taking college courses, parents need more childcare places. Both Tramore and Cappoquin are rapidly growing urban areas with young and vibrant populations.

“Providing money for more childcare facilities is a key component of our social and economic progress in the years ahead.

“There is huge pressure on existing childcare services in Waterford. This funding will create more crèche places for our young people — giving them the best possible care and giving their parents peace of mind.

“I have no doubt that both childcare providers will use the money they have been given to meet their building needs and create the kind of environments in which both parents and children will feel at home,” said Mr Wilkinson.

The Minister for Children Brian Lenihan TD announced the money as part of the joint Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 and National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010.