Minister O’Gorman launches findings from review that recommends dedicated State Agency for Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, has today published a report that signals major reform to the Operating Model for Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC).

The Independent Review of the Operating Model – undertaken by Indecon Economic Consultants – fulfils a commitment in First 5, the Whole-of-Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families and in the Programme for Government.

Drawing on national and international evidence and underpinned by a programme of engagement with stakeholders, the Review:

• assessed the current operating model for ELC and SAC; and

• identified and appraised options for reform.

The functions performed by Pobal (Early Years), Better Start, City/County Childcare Committees (CCC) and National Voluntary Organisations were in scope of the Review as well as functions performed by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) itself.

The Review identified a number of strengths of the existing operating model as well as some weaknesses that need to be addressed in the context of increased State investment in the sector and a significant reform agenda committed to by Government.

The Review concluded that a dedicated State Agency is the optimal operating model for ELC and SAC. This Agency would be responsible for functions currently undertaken by Pobal (Early Years), Better Start and the CCC, as well as the operational functions currently undertaken by the DCEDIY. This conclusion has been accepted by Government.

The Minister, with Government approval, has requested that his Department now commences a period of further detailed analysis, planning, engagement and consultation in respect of this important reform project.

Welcoming the report, Minister O’Gorman said:

The Minister thanked Indecon Economic Consultants and the members of the Review Oversight Group for their extensive work on this important project. He also noted his appreciation for all of those who participated through stakeholder consultation, and acknowledged the extent to which these contributions had shaped the review and the recommendations.