Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach. In terms of access to childcare, that is one of the key issues that have been identified over the past while and it is for that reason we are saying no one measure will solve this.

In regard to the public model the Cathaoirleach referenced, we now have the forward planning unit within the Department looking at areas where there is very clear and specific need, as referenced by Deputy Boland, or the absence of a facility. That is the first thing. As for how will we do that, it will take different shapes in different places. We may rent, build or whatever.

The Cathaoirleach mentioned the planning issues. There is a very serious issue with the planning guidelines. They are not working the way they should be working. We would be surprised what may be brought onstream when we manage, with the Minister for housing, to revisit all of that. It is a shame because we have those facilities but they are not being used for that purpose. The Cathaoirleach mentioned smaller developments of 25, 30 or whatever. I attended a meeting yesterday and the point was made that perhaps there is an opportunity to have one key facility that caters for smaller developments. I am happy to look at that and the Cathaoirleach is right to use the phrase "outside the box". We have to look at every aspect.

The public model is a massive step forward for the Government. It has never been done by the State before. Coupled with looking at the guidelines, we will look at everything. The Department is prepared to look at everything.

In regard to childminders, I want childminders to be supported. I want to make it beneficial to them to come into the system. They are very important in the work they do. They provide a wonderful facility as well. It is a different facility for childcare but it is an equally valuable and important one. I do not want there to be any issues there around childminders and we are happy to work with them to give them confidence to come into the system. There are a number of years yet to do that, so it is an ongoing body of work.