The minimum hourly subsidy in the scheme has increased by 90c per hour to €1.40 per hour for children under 15. The scheme is funded by €121 million secured in Budget 2023, bringing the total funding for the scheme to €358 million over the year 2023.


Minister O’Gorman said the scheme has seen a “huge” demand since the increased funding was secured last year, saying: “This Government is delivering on its promise to make high-quality early learning and childcare more affordable for families and accessible to all children.”


Those interested in availing of the scheme can visit www.ncs.gov.ie, or by phoning the Parent Support Centre on 01 906 8530.