Just 9 early learning centres in the Shannonside Region have applied for a government support to fund infrastructure improvement works so far this year.
The Building Blocks Capital Programme for Early Learning and Childcare provides grants to existing services in need of works such as kitchen refurbishments, upgrading of sanitary facilities and roof repairs.
Grants range from €35,000 to €75,000 with Leitrim recording 5 successful applicants so far in 2023.
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While Longford and Roscommon saw two facilities each awarded funding grants this year.
Local applicants account for just 6 percent of successful grants in 2023, with 141 out of 946 eligible childcare providers nationwide allocated money in the first 5 months of the year.
