O’Shea Welcomes Opening of €10 Million Childcare Expansion Scheme

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has warmly welcomed the launch of a new €10 million capital funding scheme aimed at expanding early learning and childcare capacity across the country.

The Building Blocks Extension Scheme Phase 2, announced today by the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, will provide grants to both community and private childcare providers to extend their existing facilities and deliver additional places, particularly for children aged between one and three years.

Deputy O’Shea said the scheme represents a significant and timely investment in childcare infrastructure.

“This is a very welcome and much-needed initiative that will help increase the number of high-quality, affordable childcare places available to families. Across Cork North West and rural Ireland more broadly, access to childcare remains a major challenge for working parents, and this scheme will go some way towards addressing that.”

The scheme will support community providers with grants ranging from €100,000 to €530,000, while private providers can apply for funding between €50,000 and €265,000, subject to match funding requirements. All funded projects must deliver additional full-time places and meet Universal Design Guidelines to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.

Deputy O’Shea highlighted the importance of supporting existing providers to grow.

“By focusing on extensions to existing services, this scheme allows trusted providers within our communities to expand and meet growing demand. It is a practical and efficient way to deliver additional capacity where it is needed most.”

He also encouraged local childcare providers to engage with the scheme.

“I would strongly encourage all eligible childcare providers in Cork North West to examine the details of this scheme and consider applying. This is a real opportunity to invest in their services, support families, and strengthen communities.”

Deputy O’Shea added that continued investment in childcare remains essential.

“Affordable and accessible childcare is critical for supporting working families, enabling greater workforce participation, and ensuring every child gets the best possible start in life. I will continue to advocate for further supports and investment in this area.”

The scheme is part of the wider Building Blocks Capital Programme under the National Development Plan 2021–2030, with applications open until 31 July 2026.