Debate contribution: Early Learning and Childcare Strategy

Debate contribution by Mrs Cathy Mason on 23 February 2026.

MLA: Mrs Cathy Mason
Party at the time: Sinn Féin
Date: 23 February 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Early Learning and Childcare Strategy
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5400044

Text

Minister, I had the opportunity to attend the consultation events held with Altram and PlayBoard, and feedback shows the passion that there is in the sector. Minister, you will know that the average full-day rate for childcare has increased by about 12% since the subsidy scheme was introduced. Have you discussed the increase with providers and parents directly to ensure that any future subsidy is not eaten up in the same way, given that the draft early learning and childcare strategy is planning to put a lot of money towards that aspect of the scheme?

95 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Part of an exchange

This follow-up belongs to: Oral question AQO 3163/22-27.

Assessment

Not analysed

This is the same MLA’s follow-up within the exchange on their own question. It is analysed together with that question and is not counted separately, so one question is never counted twice.

Disagree with this assessment?

Classifications can be challenged. A person reads every challenge, and any change is recorded publicly above with its reason.

Challenge this classification