Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy McGrath. It has been recognised throughout the country that this is a critical scheme. Many communities are availing of it and the take-up is very high. The take-up is not 100%, probably because some parents choose not to send children to early school education and because some children are included in community child care provisions. Terrific work is being done in preparing children for primary school. I note in particular the work that is being done in the ECCE scheme with children with special needs. My vision is that children will be able to avail of a second year. If resources permitted, that would be extremely helpful for those children in preparation for primary school. However, it is a question of resources at this time.

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