centres were a necessity for children from the age of three years onwards, particularly in view of the high number of only children in the Federal Republic. Only children accounted for 52 per cent of the total number of children, and 34 per cent of children had only one sibling. The Federal Government based its calculations on the assumption that a place should be available in a child-care centre for all children between three and six years of age, not only to make it easier for women to combine their job and family responsibilities, but also because it was beneficial for the children themselves. In 1987 there had been approximately 1.8 million children aged three to six years living in the Federal Republic. Places in child-care centres were available for approximately 70 per cent of the eligible children. However, the availability of places varied considerably from region to region. Moreover, only 12 to 15 per cent of the children in question were occupying full-time places. There were no figures for 1989. However, it was likely that owing to the slightly higher birth rate, and to the presence of children from families from the German Democratic Republic and from families of German ethnic background from other Eastern European countries that had settled in the Federal Republic, the situation had worsened somewhat. On the other hand, account must be taken of the fact that the Lander had stepped up their efforts to expand the number of places available in child-care centres. 126. With regard to the implementation of article 12 of the Convention, she would now respond to the points concerning health. In statistical terms, AIDS had a direct impact on fewer women than men. In October 1989 out of a total of 3,636 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the availability of childcare services in the Federal Republic (Germany) and its relation to the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The topic seems to be focused on the implementation of Article 12, which concerns the child's right to education, leisure and recreation. The text also touches on the impact of AIDS on women's health.

**Category**
Education, Health