asked the Minister for Health when he expects to receive the report of the Task Force on Child Care; and if it is the intention of the task force to present a single comprehensive report or a series of reports.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Child Care.
47.
It is not possible, at this stage, to say when the Task Force on Child Care Services will report. The manner in which it will report is a matter for the members of the task force. I understand that they have not taken a decision on the format in which they will report.
Does the Minister accept that there should be a degree of urgency in bringing this report to light? Would he consider providing any incentive or encouragement to the task force to get the job completed as soon as possible?
As the Deputy knows, this is a very complex area. While we would all like to see the report issued as soon as possible, I do not think urgency would be the primary consideration in the compilation of this report. It is a very delicate, sensitive, difficult area. Some very important fundamental questions have to be asked and answered. It is desirable that we get a very good report, the best possible report, rather than getting it quicker than we might otherwise get it. I think the Deputy would agree with that. As the Deputy knows, I have appointed a new chairman and asked him to proceed, as rapidly as possible in all the circumstances, with the work of the task force. That is being proceeded with at present.
May we take it the Minister agrees there is considerable concern in the country and, while accepting entirely the considerations he has mentioned, the report is awaited with great concern?
The Deputy is also aware that the task force issued an interim report which has been followed up.
By some Departments.