Early Childhood Care and Education

Thursday, 8 September 2022

Ceisteanna (1220)

Ged Nash

Ceist:

1220. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 1327 of 26 July 2022, if he will consider a proposal to insert an interim measure at section 4.3.1 in the early childhood care and education programme rules allowing for choice of start date for parents of multiple births, pending the outcome of the upcoming 12-month review of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42582/22]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

Any significant change to the ECCE programme rules need to be considered carefully and comprehensively in consultation with stakeholders. My Department has recently appointed Stranmillis University College to undertake a 12 month review of ECCE which is expected to be completed by Q3 2023.

The ECCE review will assess whether the ECCE Programme is meeting these core objectives and will identify any changes or improvements that can be made to the Programme, based on international evidence, experience to date as well as consultation from a wide number of stakeholders. It is not envisaged any interim measures will be taken pending the outcome of the review, however all issues raised with my Department will be considered as part of the review.