Jim O'Callaghan
Question:881. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if the opening of crèches and schools will be expedited in order to protect the development of children. [7748/20]
View answerWednesday, 27 May 2020
Questions (881)
Written answers
On Friday 1 May, the Government released its Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, which sets out Ireland's plan for lifting COVID-19 restrictions through five phases. The re-opening of Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare (ELC and SAC) services will be guided by this framework and will be underpinned by the Government's Return to Work Safely Protocol, expert advice, available evidence and consultation with ELC and SAC stakeholder representatives and providers themselves.
The future stages of the Roadmap's re-opening of ELC/SAC services are stated as follows:
Phase 3 (29 June), opening of crèches, childminders and preschools for children of essential workers in a phased manner with social distancing and other requirements applying.
Phase 4 (20 July), opening of crèches, childminders and preschools for children of all other workers on a gradually increasing phased basis and slowly increasing thereafter.
I am actively engaging with key stakeholders in the sector to make sure that the work on re-opening services is informed by the practical reality across the country. I have established and Chair an Advisory Group that includes representatives chosen by the sector, specifically the Association of Childhood Professionals, Community Forum, Early Childhood Ireland, National Childhood Network, PLÉ and Seas Suas. The group also includes Tusla, Pobal, SIPTU and Childminding Ireland. The first meeting of this Advisory Group took place on 13 May and I held follow up meetings on 15, 19 and 26 May. A schedule of weekly meetings has also been agreed.
The proposals for re-opening which are at an advanced stage will have due regard to public health guidance over the phases of easing of restrictions. I am conscious that the proposed timelines are subject to further NPHET advice, and decisions from Government.
In the interim, my Department has undertaken a number of actions to support children during this difficult time, including the Lets Play Ireland campaign and online resources (on the First 5 website) for parents of young children. My Department has also developed an online parent’s centre with information on a wide range of issues relevant to parents.
I know the Deputy is as concerned as I am about the health and well-being of young children. Be assured that I intend to move carefully but in a steadfast manner to reopen crèches and pre-schools as soon as possible and in line with public health advice.