Affordable child care Bill
Deputy O'Sullivan sought clarity on whether Cabinet had approved the full affordable child care Bill or only the heads, given the tight September timetable. The Taoiseach confirmed only the heads were approved, said pre-legislative scrutiny was next, and reiterated the aim of a September start.
I understand that Cabinet yesterday approved the affordable child care scheme Bill. Can I get clarity as to whether this approval was the full Bill or just the heads of the Bill? The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone, has indicated that she wants to introduce the scheme next September. That is a very tight timeframe for proper pre-legislative scrutiny and discussion with stakeholders, so the Bill will need to be published as soon as possible. Perhaps the Taoiseach will clarify this.
Comment on this
I agree it is a very tight schedule. The heads of the Bill were approved yesterday and must now go through pre-legislative scrutiny. It is intended, if everybody can co-operate to that end, that the single payment system will be introduced in September. The Minister, Deputy Zappone, is anxious to engage as constructively and expeditiously as possible with Members to advance the legislation.