David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have two brief follow-up questions. Is it the case and can the Minister confirm that services which are not involved in the core funding model can charge what they like and that the Minister has no control over what they can charge?

Has the Minister or his Department entered into any discussions with the Department of Education - the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte might be interested in this as well - with respect to the possibility of registered childcare providers getting involved in the July provision model? They have the expertise, premises and staff who are quite often highly trained. Will the Minister initiate that particular debate and discussion with his colleague in the Department of Education? I am aware of places around the country where parents cannot get July provision yet there are very professional, registered childcare providers in place who can provide that service. I suggest the Minister investigates that. It might help a lot of families who are under pressure at this time.

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