Mick Barry (Cork North Central, Solidarity) | Oireachtas source

I have three points. The first payments under this programme will be received by services this week, including five in Cork. Better late than never, I suppose, and it is welcome news, but what of the others? Will they receive their money by Easter or by the end of April? I am referring to centres that have submitted all of the paperwork and are just waiting for what they were promised and what has been announced in no fewer than three separate press statements to the Evening Echo.

I asked the Minister three questions about the demands of the campaigners, but she did not reply. Could she reply to this supplementary question?

The Minister referred to qualifications, which are important. Qualified staff should be well paid, but the average pay for child care professionals is €10.26 per hour. I support the Big Start campaign's call for €15 per hour. Will the Minister comment on the issues of low pay among these professionals and increase the rate to €15?

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