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

The Deputy is absolutely right about the need to listen and engage and I do. I have met organisations and we have an early years forum with which all sectors are engaged. They have a very close relationship with the officials in my Department. We worked very closely during the Covid crisis and met almost daily at some points. That supported the sector to do such a magnificent job, particularly during the worst parts of the crisis.

On the need to reform, we have brought forward the expert group on the funding model report and we are implementing the core funding part now. We have brought forward the review of the working model and support for the workforce planning, nurturing skills. We are implementing that. I attended a very positive event two weeks ago relating to the creation of a new professional body for early years educators. A lot is happening in the sector. It is happening with the Government working in conjunction with providers and employer representatives and looking to support parents and to do more for them in this year's budget.

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