Important update for ELC/SAC providers on the increase to the minimum subsidy rate & certain sponsor rates for the National Childcare Scheme (NCS).

 

NCS subsidy change 
  • The minimum rate for NCS subsidies will increase from €1.40 to €2.14.
  • There will be no change to sponsor rate for children aged 0-52 weeks however, the remaining sponsor rates will have the max rate increased to €5.30
The increase, which was introduced by Minister Roderic O’Gorman as part of Budget 2024 measures, means that if parents are in receipt of a subsidy which is less than the maximum, they will receive a higher subsidy towards their childcare fees. 
Awards will be recalculated with this new rate and updated accordingly. This will affect existing claims. Service providers do not need to modify the claim if the hours are remaining the same.