Neale Richmond (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the Minister's clarification, particularly on future capital funding that is coming on stream. However, a couple of issues still need to be addressed, one being communication with providers. We have to remember that the vast majority of childcare providers are not even SMEs; they are one- or two-person operations. They are facing an administrative tsunami. When dealing with Tusla, the only way to get through to it is via the portal. This can be frustrating when someone only has half an hour or 45 minutes in the day and there is a deadline, albeit extended.

I have raised other issues in the House regarding delays in Garda vetting. I realise this subject is not under the remit of the Minister's Department but I have raised it multiple times. Vetting causes delays when planning to take on temporary staff or other new staff. I refer to circumstances that might have happened in recent months, including in respect of insurance companies providing only minimal documentation. It all adds up and causes considerable concern. I welcome, however, the Minister's clarity and the progress. I urge her Department to do anything it can to lean on, or work with, Tusla to make it a little more front facing and responsible. I am not necessarily referring to major chains but to independent providers that are struggling to deal with this issue, despite the fact that everyone involved wants the best conditions for our children. There are those within the sector who need a little more help than others.