Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank both the Minister and the Minister of State for making funding available at such an early date. It will allow for long-term planning and help to ensure the full programme for the summer will be planned out with people involved in it.

The issue with early years sector employees, however, is that they are paid for 38 weeks of the year and must sign on during the summer. It is important that we allow them to participate in this programme and that they are included. They have a huge contribution to make. It is also about widening the base of the people available with regard to providing the support in the schools and to the children. The summer programme is also very welcome, not only for children but also for parents. There is a benefit for both. It is, however, the early years sector about which I am very concerned.

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