Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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I absolutely agree with the importance of a cross-departmental approach, whether in regard to child mental health, issues around homelessness or any of the other matters we are discussing. The Minister indicated that the delivery in regard to homeless children is not within her Department and, therefore, is dependent on funding in other areas. I am concerned there seems to be a slippage in the timeframe for the delivery of the transport provision. The school year started at the beginning of last month but problems remain. Can the Minister confirm that the 24-hour passes will be delivered before the bank holiday weekend? Given that the programme is being done through the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive, does this mean it is not available to homeless children in other parts of the country?

I wish the Minister well in her budgetary discussions in regard to ECCE. The scheme clearly needs more money and I hope she gets it. On the disability programme, there seems to be an underspend of €4.746 million and a below-profile spend on the cost of administration. We all want to see that money being spent. It is a new and very welcome support in respect of which I had discussions with the previous Minister.

I have received a specific query regarding a child who will be three in December and whose parent is trying to register online for the access and inclusion model scheme. Is this programme available only to children of ECCE age, and how does a parent go about accessing it? People need to know about it so they can avail of the support.

I agree with the Minister that the area-based childhood programme is very important. There have been some very good evaluations of the scheme in various places and I understand the Minister is looking to secure that provision for the future. The committee will fully support her in this regard. The programme has made a real difference to the lives of children, particularly where provision begins from birth. The Chairman made the point that early intervention is crucial.

Deputy Rabbitte referred to the figures relating to the community child care subvention programme. I understand the 2015 output target was €38,000, with a figure of €33,000 for 2016. Why is the output target lower for this year?