Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

661. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when the pod system will be removed from childcare providers given that this is causing many providers to curtail their opening hours due to being unable to mix the pods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51196/21]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The play-pod model in ELC and SAC settings is recommended as an alternative to social distancing. The purpose of ‘play-pods’ is to limit the number of people a child has contact with, and to support close, positive interactions between children and their adult caregivers. This system also reduces the amount of contact adults have with each other.

The HSE has not given any date for removal of its advice on the use of play-pods.

It is important to note that vaccination of staff will not automatically remove the need for play-pods or other public health measures as for example children under 12 are not currently vaccinated.

ELC and SAC services are provided by private enterprises, either privately owned or operated by community organisations. ELC and SAC service providers are responsible for establishing their own policy and procedures for the implementation of the public health guidance for the sector.

The guidance does not place a requirement on ELC and SAC service providers to limit openinghours. Opening hours are a matter for the provider in the context of their own setting and operational capabilities.

My Department acknowledges that implementation of public health guidance by providers may impact on families. However, the objective of the guidance is to reduce the risk of infection within settings in order to keep settings open for all children and families.

The guidance is kept under review by the HSE and my Department and is updated in line with the latest public health advice.