Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Much of what the Minister has said is welcome. Is it envisaged that those childminders who are exempt from Tusla inspection would be entitled to be part of the single affordable childcare scheme? To some extent, the question related to support and advocacy offered by the childminding advisory service and the link between the county child care committees and childminders. Many childminders operate on an informal level and many individuals, largely women, might be fearful about any registration process and fear that they might be penalised for working outside the tax system for a number of years. This needs to be handled sensibly and carefully to bring as many people as possible into a quality, child-centred service. That link, service and support will be essential so I ask the Minister to consider either advancing or re-establishing something along the lines of the childminding advisory service.

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