Education Minister celebrates 25 years of NICMA

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has highlighted the important role that childminders play in providing safe and learning environments for children.

Opening the 25th Anniversary AGM and Conference of the NI Child Minding Association at the Comfort Hotel, Antrim, the Minister said: "I am pleased to have been given this opportunity to speak to you on this very important day for your organisation.

“Your dedication to the professionalism of the workforce that you support, and your continued efforts to ensure that childminders are promoted and skilled in order to provide an environment which is increasingly of better quality, is to be commended.

"The quality of the care provided is so important and training of the childcare workforce, including childminders, plays a vital part in ensuring continuing levels of quality. I am proud that my Department supports the association in furtherance of these aims and objectives."

The Minister concluded: "Access to childcare facilities is an important factor in encouraging parents into the workforce and I recognise that by breaking the cycle of unemployment that exists for some families, the life chances of children from disadvantaged areas can be greatly improved."

Notes to Editors:

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