Written answers
Tuesday, 7 November 2023
Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Childcare Services
Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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59. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to outline the reductions in pre-primary childcare fees for parents and guardians as proposed in budget 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48538/23]
Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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From September 2024, any family who is not already at the maximum hourly NCS subsidy will see an increase in their subsidy. All families who would currently receive the minimum (universal) subsidy of €1.40 per hour will receive €2.14 per hour - an additional €0.74 per hour off the cost of early learning and childcare. This translates to up to €96.30 off families’ weekly bill for early learning and childcare per child using 45 hours of early learning and childcare. With up to €63 currently available per week, this represents up to an additional €33.30 off weekly costs.
From September 2024, the rates under NCS sponsor referral programme will be increased to €5.30 per hour for children over 1.
Finally, in line with the commitment in the National Action Plan for Childminding the NCS will be open to childminders, following the introduction of new childminder-specific regulations and the opening of registration to childminders from autumn 2024.
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