§ Mr. BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what provision his Department makes for child care facilities for staff: what is the extent of subsidy to nursery places and holiday play schemes; if his Department(a) subscribes to "Childcare Solutions" and (b) makes child care vouchers available; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir John WheelerIn the Northern Ireland civil service departments staff may contribute to staff child care costs where this is justified on value-for-money grounds. There are currently 36 subsidised places provided in registered nurseries. The Child Support Agency Northern Ireland subsidises 50 per cent. of the weekly cost up to a maximum of £30 and the Department of the Environment (NI) subsidises 35 per cent. of the weekly cost up to a maximum of £28. In addition eight holiday play schemes are assisted. The holiday play schemes which are located throughout Northern Ireland are deficit funded in their first year and thereafter 50 per cent. of accommodation and 40 per cent. of staff costs are funded. The Northern Ireland civil service does not subscribe to "Childcare Solutions" or provide child care vouchers to staff.
The London Office currently subsidises four places in a registered nursery. The amount of the subsidy is 50 per cent. of the full cost each week.