Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 19:

In page 3, before section 2, to insert the following new section:

"2.—The Minister shall, within 3 months of the commencement of this Act, lay before each House of the Oireachtas, a report on the introduction of a second-tier, employment neutral, child income support payment to target child poverty levels.".

I welcome the increase of €100 per year, even if it will not come into effect until April. The early child care supplement was announced by the Government in 2005. The intention of the Government was to help parents with child care costs. Will the Minister elaborate on that? I am aware she spoke at length yesterday about it and therefore I will not repeat the case.