Community Childcare Subvention Programme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2017

Tuesday, 26 September 2017

Questions (488)

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

488. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some parents are choosing to keep their children in the community child care subvention scheme even though they qualify for ECCE in view of the fact that it is more advantageous from a parent's perspective; her plans to address the loss of grant support under ECCE that results to the childcare service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40309/17]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I am aware of the situation which the Deputy highlights. Officials in my Department are looking into this issue and will be taking steps to rectify this situation. The precise mechanism for effecting the payment with regard to the grant discrepancy for that small number of service providers who may lose out is under consideration. The steps to be taken will be communicated to all providers in the near future.

I am committed to ensuring that childcare is affordable, accessible and of a high quality. The Higher Capitation rates for providers is a key element of this approach and I will ensure that providers are appropriately recompensed.