:

Much of my presentation over the past hour and a half has tried to point out why that is the case and that we are operating within strict parameters of public health advice. Second, I believe I have already answered the Deputy's question a couple of times. Over the course of the past four years, since I have been Minister, we established an early years forum. That forum, and a sub-group within it, got together and recommended who would be on the advisory group, and that is who is on the advisory group. The Federation of Early Childhood Providers is not the only group that feels it has been excluded by its own peers. As I indicated, I am setting up a reference group in order to get more representation, consult with people and try to do the best job possible. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that within the time frame we face and also in terms of the general process of designing things that need consultation, one can never consult with absolutely every single person.

See this speech in context