Meeting of the Parliament 27 May 2026 [Draft]
I am delighted to open the debate for the Government on the important topic of early learning and childcare and the Government’s plans to transform provision in Scotland. The early emphasis that we are placing on the topic, and its centrality in our manifesto, will, I hope, underline to members the importance that the Government places both on the precious early years of a child’s life and on the need for high-quality childcare as a means of growing our economy.
Before we begin the debate and delve into the detail of what is an exciting expansion project, I have a few acknowledgments to make. First, I personally thank the highly qualified, professional and—I have to say—loving childminders who support me to be here today and to lead this work for the Government. I am sure that my wee Somhairle is out in the sun just now, learning through play and spending time with his pals.
I also extend that personal thanks to all the early learning and childcare professionals who are doing that very job the length and breadth of Scotland. I saw some of that at first hand this morning when I visited Clovenstone primary school’s breakfast club, before attending the Hailesland early years centre. I sincerely thank them and reiterate how much the Minister for Children, Young People and the Promise, who is also a working mammy, and I look forward to working with them.