There could be good news on the horizon for parents in West Clare who were affected by the recent closure of community childcare services.
In at least two of the areas affected, Lisycasey and Kilmihil, negotiations are at an advanced stage over the re-opening of creches which closed last month.
Talks have been ongoing between interested parties and Pobal in an effort to restore services following the closure of the West Clare Early Years Centres last month.
400 families were left without childcare services and 53 jobs were in Kilrush, Kilkee, Lissycasey, Kilmihil and Kildysart.
Lissycassey Councillor PJ Kelly is not directly part of the efforts to re-open the centre there, but is confident that will happen.
Nonetheless, there are still hurdles to be overcome.
Meanwhile there also positive signs from Kilmihil with the Local Development Group working towards a deal to re-commence childcare there.
Chairman Martin Keane is keen to stress that no agreement has yet been reached, but he is happy with how talks are progressing.
He's also praised Pobal for their efforts.
It's understood that efforts are also continuing to re-open the community creche in Kildysart, and that discussions are continuing with regards to the services in Kilrush and Kilkee.
