There are three funded support schemes currently in operation for children attending childcare services. These are: 

1. Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) Scheme

The ECCE scheme provides a free pre-school year in a childcare service in the year before children start primary school. The scheme is universal and is open to all parents regardless of income.  For September 2012 children who qualify for this scheme must have been born between February 2nd 2008 and June 30th 2009.

Please note that  from September 2012 the standard weekly capitation will be €62.50 for three hours per day, five days per week over 38 weeks. 

QUALIFYING DATES OF BIRTH FOR ECCE SCHEME/ FREE PRE-SCHOOL YEAR

Children born between 2nd February 2008 and 30th June 2009 will qualify in September 2012.

Children born between 2nd February 2009 and 30th June 2010 will qualify in September 2013.

Children born between 2nd February 2010 and 30th June 2011 will qualify in September 2014.

Please click here for ECCE Programme Guide WcityCC 2011

To view DCYA Leaflet Guide for Parents to the ECCE please click here

Please click here to go the DCYA- ECCE

2. Childcare Subvention scheme (CCS)

The Community Childcare subvention scheme is a childcare subsidy scheme through which eligible parents can access childcare places in Community childcare facilities at reduced costs.

Please click here to view CCS information booklet

Please click here to view information on CCS Bands

3. Childcare Education & Training Support Scheme (CETS)

Free childcare places are available to eligible FAS & VEC trainees under the Childcare Education & Training Support Scheme

Please click here to view CETS Booklet 2012 

To view Childcare How Much – Parent’s Guide to Government Funded Childcare please click here