Ó Broin calls for support for Sinn Féin motion to cut childcare costs

Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Mid-West Eoin Ó Broin says he is calling on TDs in Dublin to back the party’s motion in the Dáil to cut childcare fees for parents.

The motion, which will be debated today, would cut childcare fees by two thirds for parents and help families in Lucan and Clondalkin who are facing high childcare costs.

“Childcare fees are far too high and families simply can’t afford them,” Deputy O’Broin said.

“Many families here in Dublin Mid-West are paying the same as a second mortgage or rent each and every month because childcare is so expensive.

“Too many parents, especially women, feel they cannot afford to go back to work as childcare fees are so high.

“This has to end.

“Here in my own constituency figures show that in 2021 childcare costs on average €217.09 per week for one child.

“We have to cut the cost of childcare, so that families can get a break.

“Sinn Féin is bringing forward a motion in the Dáil next week which would cut childcare fees by two thirds.”

Deputy O’Broin said Sinn Fein are putting forward ‘a detailed and fully costed plan to invest in childcare services to ensure fees are reduced’.

“Our plan would see the government take on the cost of staff wages for childcare services, in exchange for the services cutting fees for parents,” he said.

“This would happen on a phased basis, meaning fees would be cut by one third in the first year and then by two thirds.

“Delivering this would cost an additional €267m in public investment for the childcare sector.

“Cutting childcare fees would give families a much-needed break.

Families across Dublin Mid-West are already under huge financial pressure as they struggle with the cost of living crisis which has already seen energy bills, fuel costs, rent and groceries prices soar.

Despite this crisis, the government refuses to act and deliver the changes that are urgently needed to address the cost of living crisis.

“Sinn Féin will stand up for families and ensure that they get a much-needed break from sky-high childcare costs.

“I am calling on all TDs in Dublin Mid-West to back our motion in the Dáil next week on cutting childcare costs for parents.”