Alliance Education spokesperson Michelle Guy MLA has responded to the release of the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, welcoming its arrival while questioning the lack of specific targets. The long-awaited document aims to overhaul the sector, but the MLA warned that without clear measures of success, the strategy may fail to meet expectations.

While acknowledging the focus on affordability, Ms Guy expressed apprehension regarding how public subsidies will be managed. She noted that there is currently no established mechanism to ensure that government funding leads to lower costs for parents rather than being absorbed by rising provider fees.

Additionally, the Alliance Party highlighted concerns over proposed legislative consultations that could impact the current statutory admissions criteria. These existing rules prioritise children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds for funded pre-school places, a measure the party believes is vital for equity.

Michelle Guy MLA stated: "This strategy has been a long time coming and has been highly anticipated right across the sector and all corners of our society. With that in mind, we welcome that it's finally being published. "Whilst we will take the time in the days and weeks ahead to fully consider the draft strategy, it's important to highlight that while commitments to improve affordability for parents are welcome, there is still concern regarding the lack of a clear mechanism to prevent public subsidies from being absorbed into fees.

"We are also concerned about the intention to consult on changes to legislation that would remove the current statutory admissions criteria prioritising children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds when applying for funded pre-school education places.

"Quality, affordable childcare is essential social and economic infrastructure, so we need to get this right. This strategy must actually deliver tangible change for families and childcare providers alike.

"We have seen numerous strategies and plans from this Education Minister that have not been fully costed, or had clear measures of success or detailed implementation plans. The Early Learning and Childcare Strategy must have all of these, or it's doubtful it will have been worth waiting for.

"We look forward to the results of the consultation and are keen to play our part, constructively, in this process, to ensure this strategy delivers the change families need. We encourage everyone to get involved and make their voices heard."