Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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476. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if a qualification (details supplied) will be accepted to work under the new affordable childcare scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15062/19]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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The Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) introduced regulations governing the Early Years sector in June of 2016 which included a new minimum qualifications standard for the sector.

Since the 31st December 2016, all employees of a pre-school service who work directly with children must hold a full, major award in Early Childhood Care and Education at a minimum of Level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), or equivalent as deemed eligible by the Department.

Since the introduction of the qualifications requirement as part of the regulations in 2016, DCYA has compiled a list of qualifications which it would consider as meeting the minimum standard. The list can be found on the Department’s website.

Although the mentioned qualification is not on the recognised list, it may still meet the minimum requirements. I would advise that the individual submits an application to DCYA for recognition of their qualifications. The application form and details of what information must be submitted can also be found on the Department’s website.