Vol. 518 No. 4
59 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science when the early childhood education agency will be established promised in paragraph 4.1 of Framework IV of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness; the budget it will have; if it will be given statutory status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8706/00]
Initial planning for implementation of the recommendations made in the White Paper is currently under way in my Department.
Key principles underpinning the White Paper are that implementation will be undertaken on a phased basis and that progress will be achieved through a process of consultation with interested parties. My officials are currently in discussion with parties involved in the early childhood education area with a view to implementing the White Paper proposals and establishing the necessary structures. This process will be concluded shortly.
I expect to be in a position to make further announcements in this matter over coming months.
