Ivor Callely
Question:85 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform if he will introduce incentives for employers to provide childcare facilities in the workplace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1971/95]
Written Answers. - Workplace Childcare Facilities.
As I indicated in a reply to questions from Deputies O'Malley and Bruton on 22 February last, there are no proposals to provide incentives to employers in respect of childcare facilities in the workplace.
An increasing number of employers are coming to appreciate the value of such facilities particularly as an aid to retaining trained and experienced staff who would otherwise have to consider giving up their jobs. However, workplace nurseries may not be viable in most employments and in many instances parents already avail of alternative home-based or community-based facilities.
The Government is committed to ensuring an expansion of childcare provision and, as a contribution to the efforts of employers, parents and community interests, I have launched the childcare pilot scheme for disadvantaged areas last year.
I believe that this pilot scheme, operating as it does on a national basis but targeted at disadvantaged areas, will make a substantial impact in increasing childcare provision and should encourage and prompt further involvement by employers in supporting childcare expansion whether at workplace or community level.