Emer Currie
Ceist:183. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality for an update on how deposits for childcare services will be managed under Core Funding 2026-2027. [13316/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 19 February 2026
Ceisteanna (183)
Freagraí scríofa
Under Core Funding, in which over 93% of the sector participates, providers agree that all deposits must be returned to the parent/ guardian once the child’s registration is approved on the Hive or within four weeks of the child taking up the place, whichever is sooner. Additionally, providers must agree that they will not charge any non-refundable deposits (including administration/registration fees/waiting list fees, etc.) to parents/guardians in respect of their early learning and childcare service for which the deposit was paid.
The Department is committed to ongoing engagement on this matter and will consider wider changes to Core Funding deposit rules for the 2026/2027 programme year. These considerations will include a review of the restrictions around deposits.
Work on reviewing Core Funding policy for Year 5 is ongoing. Full details of Core Funding 2026/2027 will be made available to the sector in the coming months.