To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to the Northern Ireland Skills Strategy, what engagement he has had with the Minister of Education regarding the provision of more opportunities for early years and childcare practitioners to develop skills and gain qualifications.

High quality, affordable childcare is a priority for the Executive – supporting skills and education pathways for those working in the sector will be key to this.

I have recently corresponded with the Minister of Education in response to an Executive Paper on the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, stating my support for the work in this area.

I have given my commitment to provide operational input to the Northern Ireland Childcare Affordability Scheme Task and Finish Group to develop and successfully implement the strategy.