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Early Childhood Care and Education

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 April 2024

Tuesday, 30 April 2024

Questions (118)

Robert Troy

Question:

118. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to outline his Department's progress on achieving a 50% reduction in childcare fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19216/24]

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Written answers

As announced as part of Budget 2024, from September 2024 the universal subsidy provided through the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) will be increased from €1.40 to €2.14 per child per hour.

This change follows on from a previous increase to the NCS universal subsidy from €0.50 to €1.40. The upcoming increase to €2.14 will reduce out of pocket childcare costs by 50% overall when compared to 2022 levels. It should be noted that this reduction is a result of cumulative changes and is based on calculations made during Budget time.

The fee freeze in place in 94% of services participating in the Core Funding Scheme which has been in operation since 2022 ensures that these enhancements to the NCS subsidies will not absorbed by fee increases.

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