Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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618. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if his attention has been drawn to technical problems with the national childcare scheme, NCS, website which are preventing applications from being submitted for a number of months; if there are alternative methods to submit applications as in the case of a person (details supplied); if the scheme allows for reimbursements if an applicant is approved and delayed due to technical issues with the NCS website; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36485/20]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) represents the first ever statutory entitlement to childcare in Ireland. The introduction of the NCS is a landmark moment for making high quality childcare more affordable and accessible to families in Ireland.

My Department is not aware of any significant technical problems with the National Childcare Scheme website which are preventing applications from being submitted for a number of months. To date there were 5,464 applications submitted to the NCS in October and 2,154 have already been submitted so far in November. Notwithstanding this, as with any new systems there may be isolated instances where a parent or provider may experience challenges.

Pobal continue to enhance and refine and system, and have provided comprehensive training and information resources and will continue to support parents and childcare providers with any assistance required. In the specific case raised the matter has been referred for review based on the issues presented by the parent concerned.

Whilst there is no block to online applications, there is an alternative method to submit applications should an applicant wish to do so. Parents who are not able or do not wish to engage with the online application process can avail of the option to apply using a paper application form. Parents using this option will have no interaction with the online NCS system, the application will be managed for them by the NCS Parent Support Centre. The paper application route does not require parents to have a verified MyGovID. Parents can call 01 906 8530 for more information and to arrange for the application form to be sent to them.