Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 October 2017
496. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some child care providers are only offering sessional rates for parents in excess of the three hours covered by the new ECCE scheme resulting in higher rates for parents; her plans to provide a solution to this issue in order that parents can afford to cover childcare costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43485/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe ECCE programme is a three hour educational programme funded by my Department. Any fees for childcare hours over and above the ECCE hours is at the discretion of the service provider. Registered providers may offer an additional 30 minutes per day but this must be offered on a optional basis to parents and uptake of the additional time must not be a condition of initial or continued enrolment in the ECCE programme. A registered provider offering sessional hours only would be found non-complaint with the programme rules when inspected by Pobal.
If a parent requires ECCE only, and is having difficulties finding such a place, their local city/county childcare committee can provide them with assistance.
