The Summer of Play initiative will provide grants to early learning and care and school-age childcare services.
The government has announced €6 million in funding for outdoor play to support children and their families as restrictions ease.
The Summer of Play initiative will provide grants to Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare services.
Funding will also be provided to local authorities to ensure that playgrounds are safe and inclusive for all children.
Chair of Seas Suas, which represents independent childcare providers in Ireland, Athlone's Regina Bushell, says play is so important for children:
The new initiative is particularly important for children in disadvantaged areas, according to childcare providers.
Ms. Bushell - who's also MD of Grovelands Childcare in Athlone, Mullingar and Tullamore - says the scheme is especially important for those in poorer areas:
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