Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
865. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the action being taken to assist playschools offering ECCE placements to reopen and remain open; if ECCE placements for children whose schools have been forced to close will be provided in other centres; and if assistance will be provided to parents and schools in order to ensure that all those needing an ECCE placement will be accommodated. [15029/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department recently announced a €75 million package of funding for reopening services over the summer months. This substantial investment recognises the important role that the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School Age Childcare (SAC) sector plays in the societal and economic infrastructure of the country.
The new funding package contains a number of significant elements including:
- A once-off reopening support payment for DCYA-funded providers opening between 29 June and early September.
- A once-off COVID-19 capital grant for DCYA-funded providers opening between 29 June and early September.
- Continued access for eligible providers to the Revenue-operated Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS).
Services offering the ECCE programme, which will reopen in late August or early September, are eligible to apply for both the capital grant and the reopening support payment. Such services may also be eligible to continue to avail of the TWSS.
If a service provider is facing difficulties in reopening they can apply to their local County Childcare Committee (CCC) who can provide them with expert advice and support. Services which are operated by community non-for-profit providers can also access sustainability funding from my Department.
If a parent needs assistance in finding a ECCE place for their child, they can approach their local CCC for advice on ECCE options in their area. Contact details of all CCCs can be found on www.myccc.ie.
