Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Deputy very much. I will be shot for saying this, but I actually think it is a positive thing that there is an overspend in ECCE. I am a great believer in it. It is the best possible start for a child. The fact that it is free makes it all the more acceptable. In fact, more than 70% of low-income parents whose views have been sought have said they would never have been in a position to avail of ECCE if it had not been free. There is an overspend here specifically in relation to additional children who have come on board over and above what was forecast. A number of children came into the country, or whatever the case might be. Again, it is a positive that all children receive that equal start. If we had to overspend on some of them, I have to say I would die on the cross for that one.

In terms of the 96%, it has steadily increased - it was 95% and now it has gone to 96%. It is my ambition that we would actually get to 100%, but I recognise that parents must ultimately make that decision themselves as to what best suits the family. I would never take that opportunity away, but I want all parents to know that it is there, it is free of charge, and all children are welcome to it. We have full participation at primary school level and we should really be seeking to do the same in the early years.