As the Deputy will be aware, the principal objective of the White Paper on Early Childhood Education is "to support the development and educational achievement of children through high quality early education, with particular focus on the target groups of the disadvantaged and those with special needs".
The White Paper sets out a comprehensive early education strategy in respect of children who are disadvantaged. A key element of this strategy will involve continued support and improvement to existing programmes, including Early Start. This strategy will be informed by the outcome of evaluations carried out in relation to the Early Start programme and the need to ensure the development of best practice for early childhood education for the disadvantaged.
Initial planning for implementation of the recommendations made in the White Paper, including proposals concerning children who are disadvantaged, 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.
