Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 March 2025
414. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when she intends to explore making available an extra hour of ECCE each day to families in the second year of preschool, as outlined in the Programme for Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13029/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe deputy refers to the Programme for Government 2025, in which, this Government has committed to "Explore making available an extra hour of ECCE each day in the second year of preschool".
An independent review of the ECCE Programme was completed last year with the final report published in October.
Overall the report indicated the remarkable success of the ECCE programme which has transformed early learning experiences and development opportunities for young children in this country.
The key parameters of the Programme were examined during this review including the number of ECCE hours provided to children.
Officials in my Department are currently considering the finding of that report including those related to ECCE hours. It is important to consider the impact of any changes to ECCE in the context of its potential opportunities impacts and risks for all stakeholders.
