Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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654. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the way in which women caring for children at home can receive a certificate to allow parents of the children to avail of the affordable child care scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39301/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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After seeking clarification I understand that the Deputy's query relates to the minimum number of children a childminder must care for in order to be eligible to avail of the more Affordable Childcare Scheme.

To this end, I have established a working group in order to make short, medium and long-term recommendations on reforms for the childminding sector. The working group is chaired by Childminding Ireland and includes officials from Tusla and DCYA.

The working group's recommendations will relate to childminders who are currently exempt from registration with Tusla (i.e. those minding three or fewer pre-school children, or those minding school-age children only). The working group will only be making recommendations in relation to home-based childminders involved in non-relative care. It is my understanding that the Group is finalising its recommendations at present. Once submitted, the report will be considered and a determination made in relation to the next steps taken.