Written answers

Tuesday, 13 October 2020

Department of Children and Youth Affairs

Childcare Services

Photo of Cian O'CallaghanCian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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336. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if his attention has been drawn to reports from parents that some crèches are no longer accepting the national childcare scheme (details supplied); the percentage of crèches availing of the scheme; the measures being taken to reduce barriers to uptake; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29765/20]

Photo of Roderic O'GormanRoderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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At present, there are 2,874 childcare providers participating in the National Childcare Scheme. In total, there are 4,373 providers participating in at least one programme funded by my Department.

I am aware that some providers have faced challenges in adapting to the new Scheme, its new IT system, and that it is taking time for some providers to become familiar with the new requirements of the Scheme.

Training and supports have been made available to assist providers with this transition:

- Briefing sessions with City & County Childcare Committees took place in July and August 2020

- Training sessions for providers were delivered via webinars

- Recordings of the Webinars were sent to all NCS providers and the CCCs

- A series of training guides have been developed in recent weeks in relation to contracting, registrations and submitting applications for Higher Capitation and AIM Level 1.

The introduction of the NCS removed the administrative burden from childcare providers of applying for childcare supports on a parent’s behalf. Parents now apply for the Scheme directly, and only approach childcare providers once they have completed their application and have a CHICK to register.

In addition, my Department made a number of supports available in advance of the Scheme’s launch last year, including the NCS Transition Support Payment and the NCS Capital Grant.

My Department with Pobal, the Scheme Administrator, are also looking at ways to improve the provider experience and will continue to enhance the system based on feedback and engagement with the sector.

If the Deputy is aware of any specific issues being experienced by individual providers I would encourage him to refer those providers to Pobal’s Early Years Provider Centre by contacting or calling 01 511 7222.

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