“That this Committee initiates the formulation of a Council policy on non-profit and public facilities for early childhood education and care and establishes a timescale for policy formation in this area.”

Discussion  

CouncillorJ. Walsh raised the issue of the childcare crisis, noting a lack of affordable, non-profit childcare and insufficient spaces. While not the Council’s direct responsibility, he proposed exploring how the Local Authority (LA) could support or facilitate non-profit childcare—particularly through inclusion in housing developments and community buildings. 

Councillor M. McCamley advised that Blakestown childcare facility is closing, it was deemed another loss to the area. It was volunteer-led, and while childcare isn’t the Council’s responsibility, she stressed the importance of support to help parents return to work. Linda Ennis, Principal Community Officer outlined the reasons this volunteer lead group had to cease was due to regulatory demands.  

John Quinlivan, Director of Services stated this is an interagency issue. The Planning SPC might address childcare inclusion in development plans. He proposed taking the matter to the LCDC for further discussion. 

Those in attendance AGREED to defer the motion and revisit the matter in December 2025when an update from Economic Developmentand developments with the LCDC will be available.  

Action:  

·        The issue will be added to the Agenda for the Community, Sports & Culture SPC as a headed item in December 2025.