To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to Recommendation 1 within the Targeted Business Support for Childcare Providers Market Research report, to detail whether it is envisaged that this service will provide advice to all providers, including childminders.

I have agreed with the Minister for Education that my Department will take the operational lead on the design and delivery of Recommendation 1; namely, the creation of an on-going childcare business advisor role or service. Its longer-term strategic ambitions will be overseen by the Early Learning & Childcare Task and Finish Group on which my Department is represented.

My Department is scoping out a costed proposal for how this service will be delivered and my officials will provide me with further details. I am mindful of the need for it to be available to voluntary and community providers, childminders, and childcare businesses alike. It is also important that the service is provided on an ongoing basis so that we can gain a better understanding of the financial needs of the sector and tailor support over time.