Early Childhood Care and Education

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 January 2018

Tuesday, 23 January 2018

Ceisteanna (554)

James Browne

Ceist:

554. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the position regarding a person (details supplied) whose playschool placement in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, was ended with one day’s notice; if her Department will provide alternative Access and Inclusion Model and Early Childhood Care and Education placements in Enniscorthy; the alternative arrangements which have been offered to the person’s parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3252/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I must inform the Deputy that the date of birth provided in relation to the child in question indicates that they would not become eligible to enrol in the ECCE programme until September 2018, at the earliest, and, consequently, they are not yet eligible to avail of the Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) programme.

It is my understanding that an official from my Department has been in touch with the parents to discuss this matter further. The parents and pre-school provider may apply for AIM supports in respect of this child in May/ early June 2018 so that his eligibility may be assessed and if approved, supports put in place from September 2018.