Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 January 2026
1999. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the level of direct engagement she has had with groups representing childcare providers since she took office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1770/26]
View answerThe Early Learning and Childcare Stakeholder Forum (ELCSF) is the main consultation mechanism between the Early Years Division of the Department of Children, Disability and Equality and stakeholders in the early learning and care and school age childcare sector. The Forum met on two occasions in 2025, in February and again in October in relation to Budget 2026.
In relation to First 5: Ireland’s whole-of-government Strategy to improve the lives of babies, young children and their families, I engaged with groups representing childcare providers and other stakeholders at the First 5 Open Policy Debate in June 2025. The meeting was held to inform the development of the First 5 Implementation Plan 2026-2028.
In December 2025, I engaged with groups representing childcare providers at the launch of two action plans for the early learning and care and school-age childcare sector; Shaping the Future: Early Years Action Plan and Simplify and Support – the Action Plan for Simplification.[]
I have also established an Early Learning and Childcare Provider Consultative Forum, to build on the Department’s strong commitment to, and track record in, engaging with stakeholders in the sector through the Department’s advisory, oversight, consultation and research processes. Under the Terms of Reference the Early Learning and Childcare Provider Consultative Forum discusses policy and operational issues relating to the provision of early learning and childcare services. The Forum informs members of early learning and childcare developments and invites the views, concerns and suggestions from providers, as appropriate. Meetings were held 17 Sept 2025 and 5 November 2025.
I have also had direct engagement with a number of other provider representative organisations including Childcare Services Ireland, Early Childhood Ireland, Seas Suas and the Federation of Childcare Service Providers.
