Dáil debates

Tuesday, 17 December 2019

An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

 

3:45 pm

Photo of Darragh O'BrienDarragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We discussed the issue of insurance at length today, but specifically on childcare, on page 75 of the programme for Government it is stated that commitments on quality affordable childcare will be prioritised. Does the Taoiseach actually realise the scale of the issue we are facing now and this sector is facing? For example, last year, one crèche in Swords had an insurance premium of €729. This year it is €3,710. Six preschool providers in my area have said they will not open in January if this is not attended to. That means hundreds of childcare places, both preschool and after-school, that will not be available, and potentially thousands nationwide. Not only is this an insurance crisis, it is a childcare provision crisis. What specifically will the Taoiseach say to the Minister, Deputy Zappone, this afternoon? I was astonished that she said yesterday she was surprised this had come about. It should not be a surprise to anybody. What has been done and what can be done to let parents know they will have somewhere for their children to go after Christmas?

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