Simplify to Support: The Early Years Simplification Plan (2026–2030)

Simplify to Support will deliver on the Programme for Government commitment to reduce the administrative burden on early learning and childcare (ELC) and school-age childcare (SAC) providers.

This Action Plan sets out the steps Government will take to reduce unnecessary administrative burdens and simplify regulatory requirements. At the same time, while at the same time maintaining the highest standards of child safety and quality of provision and accountability for Exchequer funding.

The Action Plan emphasises practical changes: simpler programme and scheme rules and reporting requirements, the elimination of duplication, proportional oversight, hands-on support for providers, educators and practitioners and parents; as well as digital innovation, enabling providers, early years educators and SAC practitioners to focus on delivering high-quality ELC and SAC.

This Action Plan was developed with the aid of an end-to-end review from Indecon Economic Consultants and the submissions and feedback of wider stakeholders, received through a series of nationwide consultations compiled in the Stakeholder Consultation Report. Both of these documents are available below.

The Plan is available in the following formats:

• English (PDF, accessible)

The following formats will be available shortly:

• Irish (PDF, accessible);
• English (Word, compatible with screen readers);
• English (Word, Easy-to-Read);
• Irish (Word, compatible with screen readers).