Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That is all very welcome. As we know, childcare costs continue to be crippling for parents, some of whom spend up to 35%, or even more, on childcare services. We are one of the most expensive countries in the world when it comes to childcare costs. Has the Minister any statistics on the uptake of this scheme in crèches in Cavan and Monaghan? Will she give us some indication of the appetite of childcare providers for it?

The Minister referred to communication, which is welcome. It is very important that parents and childcare providers are fully informed. This is especially true for parents because they are all so busy with their own lives and trying to keep on top of mortgage payments and jobs. What form of communication will that be? Will it be via social media or local radio? The Minister also speaks about the training to be provided as part of the scheme. Will the Minister provide some more information on that?

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