A childcare group in Ardara catering for more than 100 children from 76 families is in crisis after defective blocks were found in the building.
The Ardara Community Childcare group has now been left in limbo following the discovery.
Deputy Pearse Doherty has now called on the Minister Roderick O’Gorman to find an immediate solution to the crisis.
The Donegal TD has said that the government must take action to ensure the survival of this essential service.
He said “Ardara Community Childcare group serves over 100 children and 76 families in the community.
“It is an essential service without which so many parents would be unable work.
“It has been in operation for more than 40 years, providing employment and childcare in the community.
“Their purpose-built childcare facility was built through EU Peace and Reconciliation funding and local fundraising – the product of hard work and dedication.
“The premises was tested and found to be impacted by defective concrete blocks – a crisis that has plagued so many in our county.
“Without any access to government funding for remediation, the future of this essential service in the community of Ardara is now on the line and its future uncertain.”
Deputy Doherty said he has written Minister O’Gorman asking how he will deal with this crisis and ensure the survival of the service.
He added “His and the government’s reply is not good enough, and failed to deal with the core issue of how this childcare facility can be remediated and rebuilt.
“This is not the only childcare facility in this situation in Donegal – indeed I have raised others with the Minister.
“It is not acceptable that no scheme is available for childcare facilities and providers to access funding for remediation.
“I will continue to press the need for an urgent solution to be found to ensure the survival of Ardara Community Childcare and other such facilities across the county.”
