Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 June 2022
53. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide an update on Government plans with respect to a new State agency for Early Learning and Care following receipt of the Independent Review of the Operating Model conducted by Indecon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27702/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to report that on 29th March, Government accepted the findings of the Review of the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) Operating Model that a dedicated State agency is the optimal operating model for the ELC and SAC sector for the years ahead. This independent Review was published on 30th March 2022. It is envisaged that this dedicated agency will undertake the functions currently carried out by Pobal Early Years (including Better Start), the City/County Childcare Committees, as well as operational functions currently undertaken by my Department.
My Department has now commenced a further phase of detailed analysis and open planning, consultation and engagement with sectoral stakeholders to determine how the recommendation arising from the Review can best be implemented. This phase will include, inter alia, a detailed design of a new operating model, an examination of all legal requirements, transition and continuity planning, a risk management strategy, and an examination of associated costings.
My Department is committed to ongoing consultation with stakeholders throughout this phase, and engagement in this regard has already commenced. Officials from my Department have met with all organisations comprising the existing operating model, and with other key stakeholders, to brief them on the Review and to provide them with an opportunity to share their initial feedback and views.
A dedicated State agency will assist in the development of a more streamlined structure to better support the delivery of ELC and SAC at national and local level, and will facilitate my Department in implementing and progressing the significant reform agenda envisaged under First 5, the Whole of Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families.
I look forward to bringing a further report to Government next year following the completion of this phase of what is a significant and transformative reform project.
