Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú) | Oireachtas source

Childcare and early years education are very important for the development of young children. It is also, though, very important for mothers and fathers to have access to work and income. The sector has been in crisis for many years. Under the stewardship of the Minister, Deputy O'Gorman, there has been welcome investment in recent times which has helped to reduce the costs to parents somewhat. Much damage has been done, however, especially to the early childhoold care and education, ECCE, sector, and this has seen hundreds of businesses close, especially in small towns, making it more difficult for mothers and fathers to find places for their children.

Information I received today indicates there are many workers in the childcare services sector, especially those services that receive core funding, who are not qualified. I understand this is against the law. I also understand it is against the provisions of insurance coverage. I understand it is the job of Tusla and the Minister, Deputy O'Gorman, to make sure this is not happening. Will the Taoiseach talk to the Minister and see why he is funding services that are employing staff who are not qualified in terms of childcare and to ensure this does not happen in future?

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