358. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the reason for the lack of flexibility for childcare providers (details supplied) to join the Early Childhood Care and Education scheme during the year in order to support parents financially, even if providers are late registering with Tusla; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37381/24]

The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme provides free universal pre-school to children in the eligible age range. The programme is provided for three hours per day, five days per week over 38 weeks per year. The programme year runs from the end of August to the following June in line with the primary school year.

An approved ECCE provider must be registered with Tusla to receive funding from my Department. Tusla registered approved providers can join the programme at any stage during the programme year by signing an ECCE funding agreement. Providers must fulfil programme rules including having a minimum of 8 registered children.