Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is 100% correct. Accessibility is hugely important. If we do not have sufficient places available to parents then it is a huge burden. We are currently looking at seeking the information on where there is a need for the service and where the service is not available locally. The Government is currently looking at ways the State can step in at that point to provide those additional places. Those places would enhance what is already being provided by private providers but it would provide additionality led by the State.

The Deputy asked about the money and resources.

Currently, 92% of providers are in the core funding mechanism or process. That has helped to reduce costs for parents. On average, it is a substantial reduction for parents. We have more than 4,400 providers in the system at present.

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