Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister's answer. I can see that a lot of work has gone into ensuring the financial stability of the early learning and childcare services sector.

I have been contacted by many parents in my constituency in Limerick who are extremely worried about the availability and affordability of the early years schemes. It is reassuring that so many service providers have signed up to the transition fund scheme because it gives a guarantee to parents and carers that fees will not increase above those that were charged in September 2021.

I have also been contacted by many providers in my constituency that want to provide the best service possible for children and their parents, and at the same time ensure that their staff are paid well and have security of income for 52 weeks a year. I thank the Minister for engaging with me and some of the providers and taking on board their worries and challenges. Do I have another minute?

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