The 25% reduction in childcare fees has been very much welcomed by parents. However, the increase in demand for childcare in my constituency of Dublin Mid-West has not been met by a corresponding increase in available childcare places. In fact, an early childhood care and education service in Lucan is currently facing an accommodation crisis in September. If it has to reduce its service, it would be a disaster for the community and would further exacerbate the shortage of childcare places locally.

New crèches in new developments always seem to be the last thing built. We have a situation where childcare facilities are promised by developers, approved by local authorities and needed by parents, but still do not exist in places such as Adamstown, Newcastle and Rathcoole. The Government has shown a commitment to reduce the cost of childcare. What commitment can the Minister provide that we will be able to increase the supply of childcare for families that really need it?

Particularly in growing and developing places mentioned by the Deputy, such as Adamstown and others, families need to have childcare facilities in place. That is why, as regards the planning system, we very clearly tied the provision of childcare services in particular with new homes being delivered within estates. Where that is not being provided, I put it to the Deputy that it is a matter for planning enforcement. Planning has a role in making sure that what is granted in the permission is actually delivered.

As the Deputy rightly said, this Government is investing significantly in childcare in the amount of approximately €1.25 billion. The 25% reduction in childcare fees has been welcomed by many families throughout the country and it really helps. We also have to ensure that more places are available. There have been issues with recruitment in that sector in getting qualified people to work in our childcare facilities. We are making strides in that regard.