104. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to provide an update on her consultation with childminders. [65901/26]

As you will be aware the National Action Plan for Childminding committed to a review of the initial implementation of the regulations before 2028. Acting on feedback received from childminders and childminding representative organisations, I brought the review forward, to ensure there is sufficient time to implement any changes arising from the review, before the end of the transition period.

The scope of the review is broader than initially outlined in the National Action Plan for Childminding and now also examines the effectiveness of supports made available to assist with the registration of childminders, as well as examining the barriers to registration and regulatory compliance, including financial and information barriers.

The review, which is being managed by an external company, launched in June with an open call for submissions.

A comprehensive communications campaign has underpinned the review process, with a dedicated website, videos, FAQs, and social media advertisements developed to support childminder and stakeholder engagement and awareness.

48 written submissions have been received, 39 from childminder themselves. A consultation survey went live on 30 July, providing an opportunity for respondents to share their experiences and views on the childminding regulations, including any changes they would like to see considered as part of the review. As of the 14 September there have been 422 responses. Feedback received through the survey will contribute to the evidence base informing the review and future policy development. In-person and online focus groups, stakeholder interviews and case studies are also ongoing.

For further information see www.letstalkchildminding.ie.