Dáil debates

Thursday, 4 February 2021

Covid-19 (Childcare): Statements

 

2:00 pm

Photo of Roderic O'GormanRoderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy O'Sullivan for his comments. I am aware that we always have more to do in this sector, particularly on the issue of pay.

As regards reimbursements, for the period of 1 January to 5 February we did not have any legal requirements. We did not have a new contract in place with childcare providers and we could not compel reimbursements. During that period, we requested that childcare providers make a reimbursement. For the next period, the period of 5 February to 1 March, if childcare providers want to avail of the enhanced package of funding they must sign a new contract including a commitment to a mandatory reimbursement. They do not have to sign up to that new contract but if they want to avail of the enhanced funding, they must sign up to it and make the reimbursement.

The JLC process is one that I am confident will be able to deliver a significant increase in the wages of childcare professionals. It will involve SIPTU. It will involve Childhood Services Ireland. I will receive more detail, hopefully, later on in the week. I will let Deputies know about that.

On the issue of the guidance as regard childcare professionals who are pregnant, all the information our Department uses is based on public health guidance from the Department, from the HSE. I might come back to the Deputy in writing, specifically, on that, so that he has a clear understanding.

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