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Department of Children, Disability and Equality
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley T.D. has announced funding of €421,618 for 461 Parent and Toddler Groups across Ireland. The initiative is part of the Government’s First 5 Strategy, which supports babies, young children, and their families.
The funding, an increase from last year’s allocation, will support a wide range of local group activities and resources, including:
- Toys, books, and equipment
- Snacks and refreshments
- Arts and crafts, music, and child-focused events
- Parenting support and first aid training for children
Minister Foley expressed her support for the initiative, stating:
“Parent and Toddler Groups provide a valuable social connection for families, particularly new parents or those new to the community. I’m pleased that this year’s increased funding will support even more groups, including growing numbers of outdoor-focused buggy walking groups that have emerged since COVID.”
A further €70,000 in funding was secured in response to rising demand, allowing an additional 66 groups to be funded this year compared to 2024.
The Minister also commended local groups that offer a warm welcome to families newly arrived in Ireland, recognising their role in building inclusive communities.
đź“Š Regional Breakdown of 2025 Parent and Toddler Group Grants
| County | Groups Funded | Total Grant (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Carlow | 7 | €6,700 |
| Cavan | 11 | €10,100 |
| Clare | 13 | €10,900 |
| Cork City | 8 | €6,380 |
| Cork County | 41 | €35,991 |
| Donegal | 28 | €26,730 |
| Dublin City | 26 | €23,150 |
| Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown | 16 | €13,300 |
| Fingal | 15 | €12,782 |
| Galway | 24 | €23,490 |
| Kerry | 18 | €17,100 |
| Kildare | 20 | €16,677 |
| Kilkenny | 7 | €6,290 |
| Laois | 4 | €3,700 |
| Leitrim | 12 | €11,300 |
| Limerick | 31 | €30,700 |
| Longford | 5 | €5,600 |
| Louth | 10 | €8,700 |
| Mayo | 22 | €22,500 |
| Meath | 22 | €19,775 |
| Monaghan | 7 | €6,600 |
| Offaly | 13 | €14,200 |
| Roscommon | 7 | €6,200 |
| Sligo | 8 | €7,328 |
| South Dublin | 17 | €15,600 |
| Tipperary | 15 | €15,450 |
| Waterford | 14 | €9,750 |
| Westmeath | 14 | €12,748 |
| Wexford | 17 | €14,177 |
| Wicklow | 9 | €7,700 |
| Total | 461 | €421,618 |
This continued investment underscores the Government’s commitment to early childhood development and community-based family support services across Ireland.
Minister-Norma-Foley-Picture-by-Gareth-Chaney-Collins-Dublin
