Childcare providers say that a robust plan must be put in place to cope with increased demand for pre-school services.
Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin announced that the Government was extending the amount of time parents can avail of the Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme in the Budget.
“From now on, children will be eligible for free childcare from three years of age, up until they are five-and-a half, or until they start primary school,” he said.
Mr Howlin also announced over €15m in new funding to facilitate the full participation of children with disabilities in the scheme.
He also said that child benefit will go up by €5 to €140 per month per child.
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