Childcare Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020

Wednesday, 20 May 2020

Questions (1161)

Jennifer Whitmore

Question:

1161. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of childcare providers registered with the new outreach childcare scheme for the children of front-line healthcare workers; the measures taken to address concerns with regard to the stated non-provision of insurance to providers that partake in the scheme; if she has considered registered childminders as part of the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6953/20]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

The Deputy will be aware that the Temporary Childcare Scheme for Essential Health Workers was cancelled on the 13th May.

My primary focus now, and that of my Department, is to work towards the significant challenges of a phased reopening of early learning and childcare facilities for 29th June, in line with the Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business.

I have established an advisory group to support this process and I have chaired two meetings of this group.

My Department will be communicating with the wider childcare sector in the coming weeks as plans advance 

Identifying essential workers, as referred to by the Deputy, is part of the wider Government effort to ensure that society and businesses are re-opened in a carefully managed and safe manner.