Government of the Azores opens new daycare nursery in Paim, an investment of two million Euros
The Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity opened in Ponta Delgada the Paim Daycare Nursery - "Patronato de S. Miguel" (social solidarity institution) on São Miguel Island, an investment of two million Euros promoted by the Regional Government that has double the institution's capacity.
Andreia Cardoso stressed that this new infrastructure, with 84 places, "is another proximity response to families and the community in an area in demographic expansion."
"Although the municipality of Ponta Delgada registers a potential rate coverage rate higher than the desirable minimum established rate at European level, we are aware that we need to create more places in nurseries," said Andreia Cardoso.
"All of these responses, in which we collaborate with Private Social Solidarity Institutions and "Santas Casas da Misericórdia," are essential given the increasing professional involvement of families," the government official said, recalling the importance of the environment created for the inclusion of children as well as for their learning experience, growth and well-being.
In her speech, she stressed the Regional Government's awareness of the relevance of these experiences for the emotional, mental, motor and social development of children. The government official ensured that the Government will continue to invest in this area. Currently, two similar infrastructures for childhood and youth are under construction on the islands of S. Miguel, Terceira, Corvo and Faial.
"This is precisely what has been demonstrated by this ceremony that provides another response to Azorean families. Regardless of the circumstances, we do not ignore any of our responsibilities," stressed the Regional Secretary.
The Government of the Azores currently ensures the operation of about 300 social responses directed to children and youth. Last year, they represented a public investment of about 30 million Euros.