AQW 32234/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 29/09/2025
Answered On Date: 03/10/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline the next steps she will take, following the publication of the Targeted Business Support for Childcare Providers Market Research report.

Answer:

Recommendation 1 of the Research Report provides for the creation of an on-going childcare business advisor role or service. I have agreed with the Minister for Education that my Department will take the operational lead on the design and delivery of this service. Its longer-term strategic ambitions will be overseen by the Early Learning & Childcare Task and Finish Group on which my Department is represented. My officials are working to develop a costed proposal for this important service.