Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will make two points. I have indicated that we had a full consultation process as regards the development of the regulations.

We will see if that concern has been raised. I will certainly bring what the Deputy has said back to my Department. I would not say "No" to it outright. The Deputy has offered a rationale, about which perhaps we could talk further. Having said that, what I am describing is what was recommended not only by experts but also by key stakeholders, including Early Childhood Ireland, Children's Rights Alliance and the National Parents Council. It has fed into the development of the ratio and the strong belief that is what is required to ensure quality of life and the safety of children. I do not think I can promise that anything will move, but I will bring the specific argument the Deputy has made back to the Department for it to look at it.

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