Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am glad that the Deputy is helping us in that regard. I would love to see that happen too. Seriously, we need to pay attention to it. I am thrilled that there was an increase of €5.5 million. It is the first increase since the austere years and I am aware that there is still a lot of catching up to be done. The Deputy asked about the figure of 15 hours. Children who need more than 15 hours of assistance may be identified by sponsors such as Tusla, with which we are in discussions. Children with very significant needs will have the full cost of their care covered.

Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked if the budget for the affordable child care scheme budget was sufficient. The €19 million provided is sufficient and being added to the €86 million in the base. However, we will monitor demand and take-up closely. The spending code of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform requires a spending cap. Having said that, we will monitor the scheme closely.