Vol. 417 No. 1
57 Mr. D'Arcy asked the Minister for Labour if he will give details of the number of semi-State bodies and companies which provide creches and/or child care facilities for their employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
So far as I am aware, four semi-State bodies/companies have childcare facilities. In addition, employees of another semi-State body have the use of a creche.
The monitoring system on equal opportunity initiatives in the public sector indicates that a number of semi-State bodies are examining the feasibility of providing childcare facilities for employees.
I think it is important to emphasise that the provision of work-based creches is by no means the only option available to employers who wish to assist employees in relation to their childcare needs. Already there is a wide range of alternative strategies for providing childcare being pursued to suit different circumstances. The range of alternative options will be highlighted in the report of the Working Party on Childcare for Working Parents which will be completed after Easter.
