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News release, issued by Start Strong
Monday, 05 November, 2011.

Start Strong relieved that free pre-school year maintained in tough Budget

Start Strong, an expert body on early childhood care and education, has today stated they are relieved that the Free Pre-School Year has not been cut in the 2012 Budget.

Start Strong Director Ciairín de Buis stated: “Given the tough Budget that was delivered and that many of the cuts made will affect children, we are relieved to see that the government has ensured that children and families will continue to benefit from the Free Pre-School Year in 2012. However, Start Strong will be reviewing, in detail, all measures announced in today’s Budget in the area of early childhood care and education.”

“Maintaining the Free Pre-School Year will benefit children, families and the State.”

Ms de Buis concluded: “While there is much still to be done to achieve a high quality system of early care and education in Ireland, we are relieved to see that the Government has at least maintained the free pre-school year in 2012.”

Further Information
Jemma Hogan, Montague Communications: (01) 830 3116 or (085) 7229024

About Start Strong
Start Strong was originally founded in 2004 as the Irish Childcare Policy Network (ICPN), a coalition of organisations and individuals interested in progressing childcare and early learning policies in Ireland. ICPN evolved into Start Strong in 2009.

Start Strong is committed to advancing high quality care and education as a right for all young children in Ireland. Our advocacy is built on clear evidence of the benefits this brings for children, for the economy and for society.