{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/67c5d757b48a8f157c1f9076/6943d4139a763d41f18f1aaa?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Childcare Fees to Reduce for Some as More Parents are Brought into Subsidy Scheme - 18/12/2025","description":"<p>Changes to the National Childcare Scheme will result in thousands of families receiving more subsidies.</p><p><br></p><p>Children’s Minister Norma Foley launched the government’s new Action Plan on Childcare this morning, which sets out a pathway to getting to the election promise of setting childcare costs at €200 per month per child.</p><p><br></p><p>She said she is confident the government will deliver on its €200 pledge within its lifetime.</p><p><br></p><p>The ‘Shaping the Future: Early Years Action Plan’ commits to actions in 2026 to make services more affordable and accessible, while also pledging to improve quality.</p><p><br></p><p>Chairperson at Federation of Early Childhood Providers, Elaine Dunne, joined us on The Agenda this morning to talk to us in more detail about this. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p>","author_name":"lmfm "}