Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister has not confirmed whether 10,000 or 20,000 spaces are available. Perhaps he might do so. Even if the number is 20,000 which would be at the higher end of his expectations, he is talking about an additional 22,500 spaces in the free preschool year in 2016 and a further 13,000 under the community child care subvention scheme. That gives a total of 35,500 which represents a requirement for 15,000 more spaces than those available. What review of capacity and the sustainability of the sector did the Minister undertake prior to the announcement? He talks about being aware of capacity issues, but what was done prior to the announcement in order that we would know where exactly the gaps were and in what geographical areas there were gaps?

The Minister has referred to restoring capitation rates to pre-2012 levels. The Government reduced the rates a number of years ago, but the level of restoration is still not adequate. Is the Minister aware of the huge financial pressures on communities and small private operators? He is restoring capitation rates, but under the contract with the State, the provider is meant to pay staff costs for 42 weeks of the year, yet the State is only paying for 38 weeks.

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