Vol. 432 No. 1
58 Ms Manus asked the Minister for Education her views on important contributions of community playgroups to children's development; and if she will provide such funding to these groups as would allow for the paid employment of playgroup leaders.
As announced in the Programme for a Partnership Government, I intend to introduce a system of pre-schooling for disadvantaged areas on a phased basis. Planning is currently under way in relation to this proposal.
I acknowledge the contribution which playgroups make to children's development. Such playgroups are generally established on a private basis in the different localities and it is not the intention that they be grant-aided by my Department. Under the provisions of the Child Care Act, 1991, registration of such play groups is a matter for the Minister for Health.
