Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Deputy Troy that the object of the exercise must be to ensure a level of quality. The Deputy speaks of consistency, and there needs to be an element of balance. He is aware a panel of more than 50 training providers has been approved to deliver the training programmes following the completion of the expression of interest process. More than 2, 200 staff have already applied. A difficulty has arisen because some people, who have been working with children for many years, wish to be exempt from the requirements of the new qualifications. As the purpose of upskilling is to boost quality in the best interests of children, it is only possible to do this in a very limited way.

While we have a very high degree of quality, capacity and capability, which is what our children deserve, nevertheless some people, who have been working in the system for many years, for some reason or other are not eager to attain or are not in a position to meet the quality standards. That is why there must be a transition period. I am sure Deputy Troy has received representations in this regard, as I have. We need to ensure an element of balance.

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