2943. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality when the ongoing evaluation of the national childcare scheme is expected to conclude; whether the evaluation is examining the financial impact on families where childcare providers charge fixed monthly fees regardless of attendance while national childcare scheme subsidies are calculated on an hourly basis; whether changes to the current hours-based model are under consideration; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61733/26]

An independent evaluation of the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) commenced in March 2026. It is expected that the evaluation will conclude in Q3 2027. This evaluation aims to assess the performance of the NCS to date and its operation within the wider early learning and childcare funding and policy environment.

The evaluation will examine whether the NCS, as part of the wider funding model, is making high-quality early learning and childcare more accessible and affordable, particularly for families in the lowest income groups and the most disadvantaged households. It will also identify any improvements that could be made to enhance accessibility and affordability and to ensure that the NCS is working for as many families as possible.

The evaluation will include consultation and engagement with parents, educators, practitioners, providers and representative organisations. As part of this, the hours-based model will be reviewed. Any changes to the NCS will be carefully considered in light of the findings of this evaluation.