Children's welfare and childcare scheme
Deputy Sherlock raised HIQA concerns, child protection, Tusla staffing and the delayed affordable childcare scheme, and asked for a debate. The Chair referred the request to the Business Committee, and the Taoiseach said he had no objection to a debate.
There are three Deputies remaining, and I will call on each of them. I call Deputy Brassil.
Comment on this
The programme for Government gives a significant commitment that all decisions and policies by the Government would be rural proofed. On 30 October this year the Department of Rural and Community Development wrote to every community service programme run by Pobal to inform them a review is to be carried out. Will the Taoiseach consult with his Minister to confirm this review is in line with the policy, which looks to expand and support services as opposed to cutting a very fine and valuable service in many places, including in my town of Ballyheigue where a very successful community service programme is operational? The programme's continued success is critical to the success of the town itself.
Comment on this
I thank Deputy Brassil for this important question. I am aware of the value of the community service programmes around the country, not least in Kerry. I do not have any information on that particular issue but I will ask the Minister, Deputy Ring, to provide the Deputy with a written reply.