554. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the details of the evaluation of the national childcare scheme promised for 2025; the status of the evaluation; the timeline for completion of the evaluation; her plans to publish the final report of the evaluation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49942/25]

As referenced by the Deputy, my Department will begin an evaluation of the National Childcare Scheme this year. The evaluation will examine how the Scheme is operating currently and identify potential changes or improvements to be made to the Scheme.

The tendering process to appoint an external consultant for this review is underway, further details regarding evaluation timelines will be provided in due course.

A final report will be made available to the public following the completion of the evaluation.