Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is right about childminders. I am conscious that thousands of parents rely on childminders and were not able to get the benefit of the significant cuts we were able to bring in to the cost of childcare for parents using centre-based childcare . I am also conscious that some childminders are concerned about the process because it will involve a degree of regulation. That has to be the case. If a significant State subsidy is going to be given, there has to be a regulation. I have always said it will be appropriate regulation. It will be designed for childminders and recognise they are in a different situation from those providing centre-based childcare. I want to create appropriate regulation they will feel comfortable signing up to, thus allowing parents to benefit.

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