Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 7 September 2026
2812. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the position regarding the ongoing engagement her Department is having with a large childcare provider group (details supplied) in relation to its fee structures and the knock-on impact on families; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59595/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department is aware the provider regrettably chose to withdraw several of its services from Core Funding.
The Department, through the local Childcare Committees, has engaged directly with the provider to highlight the benefits of staying in Core Funding, not only for their services but also for the families who avail of them. The Department is hopeful that the provider may reconsider their decision.
As Core Funding is an optional scheme, service providers have the autonomy and business freedom to withdraw from or choose not to participate in Core Funding, even though this will result in the loss of the significant financial support it offers them and the substantial benefits and certainty it brings to families.
For the current programme year, the provider remains eligible to provide the National Childcare Scheme and the Early Childhood Care and Education programme, regardless of their Core Funding status.
Parents experiencing difficulty in relation to their early learning and childcare needs should contact their local City/County Childcare Committee for assistance. For information, the Department has a list of all Core Funding Partner Services which is updated regularly on the Departments website under "How to Find a Partner Service."
