Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
134. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the total amount of money spent to date by her Department on researching and developing a national childcare agency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13268/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn March 2022, Government accepted the findings of the Independent Review of the Early Learning and Childcare Operating Model in Ireland that a dedicated National Early Learning and Childcare Agency is the optimal operating model for the sector for the years ahead. It is envisaged that the agency will undertake the functions currently carried out by Pobal Early Years (including Better Start), the City/County Childcare Committees, as well as early years operational functions currently undertaken by the Department.
Over the subsequent three year period, the research and development costs have amounted to €617,000 to date. This amount excludes the Department's direct salary costs in support of this project work.
