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

I thank the Taoiseach for the update on the new child poverty unit but we still need more detail. In particular, does he have specific objectives or targets he intends to meet in addressing the critical issue of child poverty?

Given the severe shortage of early years and childcare places, will he set up a public model of delivery for childcare that can guarantee children a place in early years education? Regarding socioeconomic discrimination, which is at the heart of this intended unit, does he support the addition of socioeconomic discrimination as the tenth ground in equality legislation as another way in which child poverty might be addressed?

Regarding access to specialist health services for children with disabilities, particularly those from families with less means, I am aware of some families having to go the Society of ~St. Vincent de Paul for financial assistance to pay for speech and language therapy because they cannot access it anywhere else. Other colleagues have had the same experience. Will the Government commit to refunding parents left with no choice but to pay for essential healthcare and supports such as this for their children?

Regarding access to specialist health services for children with disabilities, particularly children from families with less means, I am aware of some families having to go to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul for financial assistance to pay for speech and language therapy because they cannot access it anywhere else. I know other colleagues will have had the same experience. Will the Government commit to refunding parents who are left with no choice but to pay for essential healthcare and supports like this for their children?

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