A temporary new home is being sought for the Raphoe Community Playgroup, which is facing closure next month due to its defective blocks issue.
The community playgroup has been in operation for over 40 years, however, its building is to be ‘condemned’ at the end of June due to safety concerns.
A campaign was launched in March to raise €1M to rebuild the centre.
Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman has revealed that a potential temporary location is currently under review and his department will assist in funding tjhe relocation.
“My Department has informed Pobal, that if this becomes a feasible option for the service, relocation supports and other accommodations such as a 4 day 41 week ECCE contract will be supported,” the Minister said when questioned by Deputy Pearse Doherty.
Minister Gorman said he has asked his Department, Pobal, who are the Core Funding Scheme Administrator, and the Donegal County Childcare Committee, to engage with the service’s management board and investigate possible relocation options.
“I am aware that Pobal and the Donegal County Childcare Committee are engaging with the service regarding their plan to communicate ongoing developments to parents and guardians,” he said.
Donegal County Childcare Committee is also working on finding suitable alternative care for children in attendance, to ensure that if the service cannot relocate that there is minimal disruption to their care.
The Minister added: “I must emphasise that the safety of children and staff is paramount, and I am assured that services effected by Mica, which are engaging with my Department and Pobal, have regular inspections by engineers and architects in order to ensure the safety of the building.”