Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 May 2013
245. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will confirm the availability of a second year of free preschool education in respect of a child (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23272/13]
View answerThe Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme was introduced in January 2010 and provides for one free pre-school year for all eligible children before commencing primary school.
The programme includes a number of additional provisions to take account of children with special needs. These include an exemption from the upper age limit for qualification under the programme where a child is developmentally delayed and would benefit from starting primary school at a later age. In addition, children with special needs can apply to have the pre-school year split over two years on a pro rata basis, for example availing of the programme for 2 days a week in the first year and for 3 days a week in the second year. Application for these exemptions must be made prior to the child commencing the programme. However, there is no provision under the programme for a second pre-school year for any child. As the child in question is availing of the full free pre-school complement in the in the current academic year, there is no further entitlement under the ECCE programme.
