Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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571. To ask the Minister for Health his views on matters raised in correspondence by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8586/20]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Temporary Childcare Scheme for Essential Health Workers that Dr Katherine Zappone, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs was to establish regrettably cannot proceed as planned.

The scheme launched on 7 May with a call to childcare services to volunteer to provide childcare for health workers in their homes.  Unfortunately, uptake for the scheme among childcare providers has been much lower than was hoped, with only six providers applying. 

DCYA advise that the reasons include the availability of insurance cover, concerns about possible virus transmission, difficulties in meeting employer responsibilities in relation to breaks and rest periods, and concerns about a lack of protection for staff working alone.

Minister Zappone and her Department remain strongly focused on developing solutions to the significant challenges posed to a phased reopening of early learning and childcare facilities ahead of a planned 29th June in line with the Government’s Roadmap on Reopening Society and Business.