Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak to the Fine Gael motion relating to the early child care supplement and the proposal next year for a preschool year in early childhood care and education scheme. The initial halving and eventual abolition of the existing child care supplement, in operation since 2006, is a very devious piece of work by Fianna Fáil and the Green Party. We must not forget that particular doormat for Fianna Fáil, as the Green Party says much but does very little.

The introduction of the cutback was very carefully orchestrated. In April's supplementary budget, it was announced that the early child care supplement would be halved from 1 May, although people have lost sight of that. The benefit is paid in arrears by a month so the April payment was on the second Monday in May and the May payment - which will be half the previous payment - will be payable on the second Monday in June.

What is happening on the first week of June is not exactly a secret, as we will have European and local elections and two by-elections, one of which will be in my own constituency. The elections will take place on 5 June and on 8 June, parents will suddenly realise that the early child care supplement has been halved, with a payment of €41.50 instead of €83.

The Government played out a very devious political ploy when it introduced this cut in the budget, as it would only take place after the local and European elections and two by-elections.

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