The Fine Gael leader stated that consultations with parents and childcare providers would begin on Friday, focusing on how to implement the service in the next government term.

Harris made the announcement during the Fine Gael parliamentary party think-in in Tullamore, Co Offaly, highlighting that childcare would likely be a major issue for political parties ahead of the general election. Many parents are struggling to find childcare spots, while providers face rising costs.

During his remarks, the Taoiseach emphasized efforts to reduce childcare costs and increase subsidies but acknowledged that more needs to be done. “There’s still real work that needs to be done in terms of increasing available places,” he said, noting that the early years sector should be “in the public space.”

He added, “While progress has been made on affordability, supply is a major concern. Many parents tell me, ‘It’s good that you’ve reduced the cost, but what about increasing the number of places?’”

Harris emphasized his belief that childcare and early education should be part of the public system and more closely linked to the education sector, noting that the proposal would be fully funded in Fine Gael’s election manifesto.

Dismissing claims that Fine Gael is rehashing a policy by Green Party leader and children’s minister Roderic O’Gorman, Harris stated, “No, this has been my clear stance since I became party leader. I believe childcare should be part of a publicly funded education system, and I’ve praised Minister O’Gorman for his efforts.”

On Monday, O’Gorman expressed his belief that the State should take a larger role in childcare and proposed making two years of free early childhood care and education (ECCE) a legal right. He also said the Green Party would focus on increasing capacity in areas that need it.

More than 70 Fine Gael politicians and election candidates are gathering in Tullamore for discussions on key issues, including the upcoming budget, housing, migration, and childcare. The party has selected 47 candidates across 30 constituencies, with 34% being women, just short of the 40% gender quota.

The meeting comes as Fine Gael faces the departure of several experienced TDs. Of the 26 TDs who have announced they won’t contest the next general election, 15 are from Fine Gael. The party has 23 first-time candidates, six of whom have never run for office before.

There are also rumours of an election before the end of the year, with the party expected to finalize its candidate list by September. Harris stated that Fine Gael would present a “blended mix of experience” along with “new energy and freshness” in the next election.