New model for acquisition of childcare facilities to be examined – Currie

A new state model for the acquisition of childcare facilities is to be examined by Government, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

The proposal was part of a report ‘Better Planning for Local Childcare’ by Senator Emer Currie and would see the leasing back of premises at a reasonable cost to early learning and childcare providers.

Senator Currie said, “My report outlines flaws in the current planning system contributing to the shortage of childcare places in local communities, as well as short and long-term recommendations to fix it.

“I am very pleased the need for action has been recognised when it comes to childcare supply, including the development of a new Supply Management Unit to look at forward planning and work is under way between the Department of Housing and the Department of Children to review the guidelines for Planning Authorities.

“The guidelines are flawed. For every 75 homes built there is a benchmark of a least one childcare facility for 20 children.

“As it stands, the guidelines link the development of new residential communities, with the delivery of childcare places. But we know that level of childcare provision simply isn’t happening, because of gaps in the planning process. In some cases when childcare facilities are built, they can lie empty for years.

“A developer only has to provide a shell of a building, and the cost of adapting them from shell to core units for childcare purposes, as well as making them compliant with regulation, can mean they are out of reach for small to medium childcare providers and community-led partnerships.

“Meanwhile parents and providers and crying out for childcare places and premises across the country, and there is a shortage of appropriate childcare facilities.

“I’m pleased that my proposal to develop a new state model is being looked at. As well as supporting providers, it could act as a steppingstone to state-led public provision.

“We can take action now, like the inclusion of one-bedroom apartments in the calculation of projected childcare places and mandatory guidance for planning authorities to ensure childcare facilities are purpose-built.”

“The longer we wait for planning issues to be addressed, the more opportunities we miss to link childcare supply with the upturn in housing delivery.” Senator Currie concluded.