Ivana Bacik (Independent)

That is not the case. The capacity is there, it is how we ensure the places are made available through the existing system. There is not a requirement for any new buildings or new legislation. We need to be clear on what we are talking about.

In terms of the section, we are in favour of progressive reform. The lone-parent groups I have met, as Frances Byrne said in today's edition of The Irish Times, agree with progressive reform. They are concerned about adequate supports. We have had the debate on child care but the other support needed is to ensure that transitional arrangements are in place for those lone parents who are in employment and can remain in employment while in receipt of their allowance but are concerned the transition to jobseeker's allowance will be made flexible in order that they can continue in part-time employment on the same basis. Those are the issues we need to look at as well as the child care supports. Supports are available to ensure a smooth transition to the progressive reform we are making. The reforms are needed because the outcomes are not good under the current spend and the Minister has put that clearly to us.