Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy; I believe there is unanimity here regarding the €45 million and how it should be spent in full. If the joint labour committee is unable to agree on a new employment regulation order for the start of the 2025-26 year, the ring-fenced €45 million will not be made available at the start of the year either. That is the purpose of it. I am hopeful and it is my wish that everything will be done in advance of the 2025-26 year. Obviously, it is a win-win situation for everyone if the children are being cared for by those who are suitably recompensed and have the qualifications that are required. It is looking after the children, the parents and the providers. Every year since core funding was introduced, we have seen an increase in the number of those who are in this market now. We are also in a process, as I mentioned earlier, where there is a lack of availability. A body of work is being done there to allow the State to step in where necessary.

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