Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
1908. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the steps she will take to increase the number of registered child minders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27094/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have established a working group in order to make short, medium and long-term recommendations on reforms for the child minding sector. The working group is chaired by Child minding Ireland and includes officials from Tusla and DCYA.
The working group's recommendations will relate to child minders who are currently exempt from registration with Tusla (i.e. those minding three or fewer pre-school children, or those minding school-age children only). The working group will only be making recommendations in relation to home-based childminders involved in non-relative care. It is my understanding that the Group is finalising their recommendations at present and when they submit them to me, my officials will then consider the next steps in relation to supporting childminders to move towards registration and eventual participation in the delivery of subsidised childcare to parents.
