Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In my final contribution before I read the closing speech, I want to say that I could not have returned to work or be in the role I am in without the support of a childminder. To me, it is very important that we get this right so that we can support more women in the workforce, more women who need flexibility, and who might even get into politics because we have unsociable hours.

Great care is needed in ensuring that we get the regulations right. The national action plan for childminding was itself underpinned by extensive consultation. The process of drafting regulations has been supported by the active engagement of childminders, and the public consultation on the draft regulations will begin in the new year and will be of great importance. It will also be important that we give childminders the time and support to comply with regulations. A pre-registration training programme is being developed to support childminders and to help them understand the regulations. The national action plan for childminding commits to a phased approach with an extended transition period during which childminders will be supported in engaging with the regulations and registering with Tusla.