Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I note the Deputy's genuine concerns about staffing, recruitment and training and retention of staff in the sector. He makes a very important and valuable point which I will pass on to the Minister.

The restoration of capitation rates to pre-2012 levels from September 2016 and the introduction of additional capitation payments under the new model of support to ensure children with disabilities can participate in free preschool facilities should also encourage a greater number of new applicants and encourage existing preschool providers to expand. It is clear that more capacity will be required and January and April enrolments may pose a challenge. However, officials in the Department of Children and Youth Affairs are committed to assisting with these challenges. They are undertaking a mapping exercise to identify where the additional capacity will be required. They are working closely with all of the city and county child care committees and voluntary child care organisations on a range of measures which will assist preschool providers to meet the increased demand for free preschool provision. That engagement is very important and timely. Further information on these measures will also be made available very shortly.

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