The Government is to establish a new State agency as part of a “major reform” of the early learning and children’s sector in Ireland.
The move comes on the back of an external review of the operating model for Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) in Ireland published by the Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman this morning.
The report assessed the current operating model and identified options for reform and concluded that a dedicated State agency should take over responsibility for functions currently carried outby Pobal (Early Years), Better Start and the City/County Childcare Committees as well as some functions performed by the Department of Children itself.
The report from Indecon has been accepted by the Government and Mr O’Gorman said his Department would carry out a period of detailed analysis, planning, engagement and consultation.
“The recommendation emerging from this review – to establish a dedicated State agency - will support the delivery of accessible, affordable and high-quality ELC and SAC services for children and their families and the significant reform agenda for ELC and SAC committed to by Government,” Mr O’Gorman said.
He said the project team had been established in and he encouraged “all stakeholders… to work with my Department in this next and important phase to design an operating model for the benefit of the sector, the State and most importantly children and their families.”
