Sinn Féin MLA Catherine Kelly has said the Department of Education’s commitment to fund community creches is welcome but should have come much sooner. 

The West Tyrone MLA was speaking after Department officials confirmed that community settings would be included in further considerations for funding support.

Catherine Kelly said: 

“The Department of Education’s commitment to support community childcare settings is better late than never, but it should have come much sooner. 

“Around 74 community settings that have not received financial support during the Covid-19 pandemic, despite the fact they are commonly located in areas of deprivation and provide vital childcare support. 

“Community based creches act as a lifeline for workers and families, particularly to women returning to work or education. 

“At last we have a commitment by the Department of Education to include consideration of community providers as settings face the potential of further hardship.”