More than 7,700 children in County Donegal receive childcare subsidies under the National Childcare Scheme, but it’s believed that many are missing out on their full entitlement.
Minister for Children, Roderic O’Gorman, T.D. is today calling on all parents in Donegal using Tusla-registered childcare services to make sure they are getting their full entitlement to subsidies, which could cut thousands of euros off their childcare bills each year.
7,756 children in County Donegal received subsidies towards the cost of their childcare under the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) in 2023, with more than €15 million paid to early learning and childcare providers in County Donegal to reduce parents’ fees.
Minister O’Gorman said: “With the Easter holidays approaching, many families will be looking for further childcare cover.
“While thousands of parents are receiving subsidies, many will be unaware they can use their subsidy for more hours than usual during mid-term and holidays, or even to cover one-off camps.
“There are almost 4,000 providers across the country eligible to receive your subsidy.
“I would strongly encourage all parents or guardians to talk to their provider about their subsidies and extra hours over the holiday period if needed.
“Parents who want to explore using a childcare provider for the first time can talk to their local county childcare Committee.”
Currently, the minimum hourly subsidy is €1.40 an hour and it will be increasing to €2.14 in September. This will mean families using full time care (45 hours a week) will receive a minimum of €5,000 euro a year off their bill per child. Many Families can receive an Income Assessed Award, which is based on household income, which can be as high €12,000 per year for those using full-time care.
Families who would like to know if their childcare provider is registered for the NCS can access the Childcare Search Service on the NCS website, at www.NCS.gov.ie, where they can also see the providers’ fees list. Families will also find information on how to apply for the NCS.
Families who want some more support in how to apply can contact the Donegal County Childcare Committee.
Trish McLaughlin from Donegal County Childcare Committee, said: “The NCS has greatly benefited families across Donegal. All families regardless of their income benefit from this universal support which subsidies the cost of childcare.”
“Anyone with any questions about the NCS is welcome to contact Donegal County Childcare Committee on 074 9123442 for assistance.”
“The Scheme Administrator, Pobal, also run a helpline to provide support and guidance to parents in relation to the NCS. The Parent Support Centre can be contacted on 01 906 8530 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.”
