Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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262. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans for the vulnerable one to three years of age group in community early years services in budget 2018 in Cork city and throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26486/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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I am aware that the 0-3 age group presents particular issues for early years service providers. In an effort to better understand the range of issues being faced I have asked a sub-group of the Early Years Forum to examine the evidence in this regard and to consider appropriate measures to alleviate any identified sustainability issues. This group has met on a number of occasions and is due to report back to me and the Early Years Forum in the coming weeks. It is my intention that the outcome of the groups consideration of the issue will inform my consideration of the forthcoming Estimates and budgetary process for 2018.