Michael Healy-Rae
Question:1150. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to review a case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12361/24]
View answerWednesday, 20 March 2024
Questions (1150)
Written answers
The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) is a model of supports designed to ensure that children with additional needs can access the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme. The goal of AIM is to empower Early Learning and Care (ELC) providers to deliver an inclusive pre-school experience, ensuring that every eligible child can meaningfully participate in the ECCE Programme and reap the benefits of high quality early learning and care.
AIM Level 7 support provides additional funding to ELC providers who have a child requiring extra support. Providers can use this funding either to reduce the adult-to-child ratio in the pre-school room or to fund an extra staff member as a shared resource with other children in the ECCE setting.
Pobal have confirmed that an application was received on 4 March 2024 and is currently being processed with a final decision to issue shortly.
My Department funds the national network of City and County Childcare Committees (CCCs) who provide support to parents and providers at a local level. If a parent or provider requires further information or advice their best option is to contact Kerry CCC who can be contacted by email at info@kerrycountychildcare.com or by phone at (066) 7181582.