Pre-school dates were incorrect

You suggested Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr James Reilly, had indicated a second free pre-school year would not be introduced until 2020 “at least”. This is not correct.

The article relied on a parliamentary reply in early December which in fact; A: stressed the value of the current pre school year; B: noted that despite financial problems this government has maintained it; C: indicated the government intention to introduce a second free year when finances allow and D: noted that international best practice shows us that the work of real value now is to improve the service available.

Nowhere has it been suggested the second free pre-school year will have to wait till 2020.

People may have been confused by the fact that the very wide-ranging Better Outcomes Brighter Futures strategy and which includes quality improvements, extends till 2020.

Mark Costigan,

Spokesman for Dr James Reilly

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs