AQW 45401/22-27

Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 01/05/2026
Answered On Date: 14/05/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 41419/22-27, for an update on any engagement his Department has had with the UK Treasury regarding the issue of Tax Free Childcare support in Northern Ireland, including any planned next steps.

Answer:

My officials are continuing to engage with Treasury on the interaction between the Tax‑Free Childcare age cut‑off and the school year structure here. The issue was raised with Treasury in March 2026 and followed up again on 1 May 2026 to seek an update, including any initial assessment of feasibility, operational implications or costs. Treasury has confirmed they are engaging with HM Revenue and Customs on this matter.

I also raised this issue at my bilateral meeting with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury following the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee meeting on 19 March 2026.

Officials will continue to pursue this issue with Treasury.