Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

There is, as the Deputy conceded, unprecedented Government funding going into the sector. If a provider steps out at any point, that provider can return. The Department has a sustainability fund. If a provider is of the view it is not viable to continue or is having particular sustainability issues, it can in the first instance engage with the city and county childcare committees and it can engage with the Department on the sustainability fund. The purpose is to ensure there is a free line of communication between all concerned and that these services are sustainable.

On areas of significant demand, which I have already discussed with other Deputies, we are looking at areas across the country via the forward planning unit we have. Where private providers are not in a position to provide, Government will seek to step in through State-led facilities.

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