Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Last week, I asked the Taoiseach about childcare and if the Government will move more swiftly towards a public childcare model; affordable for parents, fair for professionals and guaranteeing equality for children. I am looking at the Taoiseach and the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Deputy O'Gorman, because I did also acknowledge the steps the Minister has taken towards building that model and the provision of core funding. I want to ask about one specific aspect. Last week, the Taoiseach said that the budget will support a reduction of 25% in childcare fees for parents. In reality, however, and certainly in Dublin, it looks as if the fee reduction parents are likely to see next year will not come close to 25%. Fees in Dublin are significantly higher than the national average. Parents in my constituency are paying as much as €1,000 per month per child. Many parents are unable to access childcare places. Another crèche in my constituency will be closing this week. Will the Taoiseach say what the Government will do to secure affordable childcare for parents?

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