Preschool operators say plans to allow parents enrol children at three times during the year - are completely impractical.

Budget 2016 gives parents the chance to start children in preschool in September, January or April.

The Minister for Children defended the plans yesterday - saying it would give more children the chance to avail of the free preschool year.

However Early Childhood Ireland CEO Teresa Heeney says it simply isn't workable: