767. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if the ECCE will restart in September 2020; if so, the notice that will be given to childcare providers in advance of it restarting; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12300/20]

My Department is currently finalising proposals for the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme for the 2020-21 programme year. ECCE contracts are being prepared and will be circulated to providers once the details of the programme have been confirmed.

Pobal, which administers the ECCE scheme, has contacted all registered early learning and care services care to inform them that they should be prepare for potential reopening, with an indicative opening date of 24 August.