Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2023
537. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when he expects Phase 1 of the extension of the national childcare programme to childminders to be complete; if the details of the remaining phases to be completed before childminders can be fully included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42427/23]
View answerThe National Action Plan for Childminding 2021-2028 commits to extending regulation and supports to paid, non-relative childminders who work in their own homes over the coming years. The National Action Plan sets out a phased approach with a preparatory phase followed by an extended transition phase, to allow childminders a lead-in time for any requirements. This supportive, phased transition process aims to facilitate the largest possible number of childminders to enter the regulated sector, the sphere of quality assurance, and access to Government subsidies, while recognising the time and supports required for this reform.
The National Action Plan for Childminding 2021-2028 commits to opening the National Childcare Scheme to childminders at the earliest possible opportunity, though it will be necessary first to develop and introduce childminder-specific regulations, and to give childminders adequate time and support to meet regulatory requirements.??
Phase 1 of the National Action Plan, which began in 2021, is expected to take 3 years to complete. Phase 1 includes: development of new, childminder-specific regulations that are proportionate and appropriate to the home environment in which childminders work; development and roll-out of new, bespoke training for childminders; amendment of primary legislation to enable childminders to register with Tusla; and re-examining the funding and financial supports available for childminders.
Phase 1 will be completed when the exemption to registration has been removed from the Child Care Act 1991 and the childminder-specific regulations have been commenced. All childminders will then be able to register their services and access the National Childcare Scheme.
Phases 2 of the National Action Plan for Childminding 2021 – 2028 will include the provision of additional training and supports; the introduction of a Quality Development Programme; and a review of available financial supports. Phase 3 will see the full implementation of regulations and supports.
Since coming into office I have been committed to seeing this process through. A great deal of work still lies ahead, and it is important that we take the time to get this right, as it will involve a major process of change.
