To ask the Minister of Education what discussions he has had with current Early Years funded groups, to inform the new Pathways Fund available in April 2016.

If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.

I am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.

Once the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.