Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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553. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number and percentage of child-care providers nationally who have signed up for the affordable childcare scheme; the number and percentage that have not yet signed up; the reason some providers have not yet signed up; the efforts under way to achieve 100% compliance (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41814/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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Currently 3,155 of 3,705 of applicable childcare services (85%) have signed up to deliver the affordable childcare scheme. Further applications to sign up to deliver DCYA programmes are being received every day.

I am aware that some providers have expressed concerns around the administration of the new measures. In recent months, I have announced payments towards 'non-contact hours' for all childcare providers who register for the enhanced childcare measures under the Community Childcare Scheme.

My Department has also engaged with providers through roadshows, a dedicated website and through the City/County Childcare Committees which provide support and advice to service providers.

With regards to the details supplied by the Deputy, I understand that officials from my Department have been in contact with this service provider and this issue has been resolved to the provider’s satisfaction. If this service provider has any further queries I would advise them to email eyqueries@dcya.gov.ie.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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554. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the steps she will take to ensure the initiation of the affordable childcare scheme continues to meet requirements and provides a high-quality service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41817/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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My Department engages with key partners and stakeholders on an ongoing basis to ensure that all of our schemes meet their objectives and the needs of parents and providers.

Our consultation mechanisms include an Early Years Forum which I set up in 2016 and there are also sub-groups looking at specific concerns. There are also operationally focused groups and consultation groups looking at how my Department’s schemes operate.

The Department of Education and Skills, Tusla and Pobal all undertake inspections of childcare services to ensure that the service providers meet all relevant standards and requirements.