Childcare Services
Dail Éireann — 2026-07-08
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Robert O'Donoghue (LAB), Dublin Fingal West

I thank the Minister of State. It is good to see the Department is aware of the issue. The NCS is a good scheme but it is generally for childcare, and I am asking more specifically about summer camps. I am not sure if the NCS is usable in summer camps, though I am open to correction on that. We are looking for targeted supports. Like the NCS, we support school meals, childcare and school transport because we recognise the barriers families face. Why should summer activities be any different? I am not suggesting every family should receive a subsidy. I am asking the Minister of State to examine targeted, means-tested supports for those who need them the most. Summer activities keep children active, connected and engaged. They support their well-being and ease the pressure on families during the school holidays. Will the Minister of State commit to engaging with summer camp providers and family organisations to examine what practical support schemes specifically for summer camps can be introduced ahead of next summer? If we genuinely believe every child deserves an equal start in life, we must also believe every child deserves an equal opportunity to take part in activities that help them learn, socialise and thrive during the summer months.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-07-08/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-09-14T01:01:07+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-07-08