Diane Forsythe said:
‘Since the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme was introduced in September of last year, £6.5 million has been allocated to support families in the first six months of the scheme. This funding has already 15,375 children enrolled, delivering real and tangible benefits to working families across Northern Ireland.
This scheme represents the fulfilment of a key DUP manifesto pledge to ease the financial burden of childcare costs, ensuring that parents can continue to work while their children receive childcare. I commend DUP Education Minister Paul Givan for his determination in driving this scheme forward and ensuring its successful rollout.
It is also welcome that the Minister has now extended the scheme into the new financial year, with significant improvements, including a 10% increase in the subsidy cap and enhanced administrative payments to providers. These measures will further strengthen childcare provision and support both families and providers.
With the childcare budget allocation doubling to £50million in 25/26 I have full confidence in Paul Givan to deliver more. The DUP remains committed to delivering practical, family focused policies that make a real difference to people’s lives, and this scheme is a clear example of that commitment in action.”