Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The cancellation of the healthcare workers childcare scheme is regrettable, not least because it is hugely inconvenient for the healthcare workers themselves. I have spoken to many providers about this and I get a sense that there has been a certain erosion of trust between the providers and the Department. The issue is consultation. People told me that a 17 page document arrived, it was a fait accompli and they just did not know what to do. There is real concern within the sector. One of the issues that arose is that many childcare workers work part-time rather than full-time and so could not provide the service. I am interested in something the Minister said a moment ago about childminders. One of the issues that was raised with me is that the workers in this sector see themselves as education providers and not childminders. I ask the Minister to address that point. I take on board the fact that the Minister has set up an advisory group and I acknowledge that a lot of good work is being done. However, I still think trust needs to be rebuilt.

I wish to ask about childcare providers signing up to the official contract to provide staff wages and about the €300 per week payment for sole traders. My information is that many providers, especially the smaller ones, have not signed up because initially it was really a blank contract. Does the Minister know how many providers have signed up and how many have not? While the €300 per week will tide sole traders over and people are grateful for it, there are significant extra costs involved in reopening. Does the Department have plans in place to support providers when they reopen? Will the pod system to which the Minister referred mean the number of children who can be cared for will have to be reduced? If so, who will bear the cost?

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