Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This issue was raised this morning by two party leaders. The Taoiseach's response was underwhelming. Yesterday, the Minister, Deputy Zappone, said she was shocked and stunned by the hikes in insurance premia. I have been contacted by a number of providers in my area who are overwhelmed by what they are being quoted. One operator of a crèche on Wainsfort Road is facing closure as the quote she received is a 400% increase on what she paid last year. I have heard similar stories from other crèches.

My preference is for public childcare services in this country. I cannot understand why, as a Deputy, I can get public liability insurance for approximately €300 per annum and that when I was a member of Dublin City Council I could get public liability insurance in regard to putting up posters at a cost of approximately €120 per annum. We need to put in place a facility to enable childcare services to link into public liability insurance that is affordable.

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