Childcare system in “dire straits” says McCarthy

Glencullen-Sandyford Councillor Lettie McCarthy says that Irish childcare is in “dire straits.”

The Labour Councillor said that a childcare crisis is “gripping” Ireland.

Research from the Irish Independent found that less than 35% of areas across Ireland have creche places available and in some places parents are facing up to three years of waiting.

“The government’s failure to address this crisis is unacceptable,” she said.

McCarthy claimed that Government is “ignoring the stark reality facing families across Ireland.”

“With too many gaps in the childcare system, providers are closing down, leaving parents in a desperate situation.”

“I’ve heard from parents in my own area struggling to find a childcare place for their child, leaving them in really stressful situations. We also have a situation of a current facility needing to find a new premises that I am doing my best to locate before September”

 “For years, we’ve heard empty promises from Government of ‘free childcare’ on Budget day, but these measures barely scratch the surface, leaving parents to juggle reduced working hours or rely on family support.

 “The childcare system in Ireland is in dire straits, held together by subsidies to private companies, tax credits, and grants. Parents struggle to afford crippling fees, while workers in the sector are often poorly paid, exacerbating the crisis.”

McCarthy called for a state-led universal system of care as opposed to the current for-profit, market-driven model.

“Labour has been campaigning for universal childcare, advocating for an approach that prioritises equality for children, affordability for families, and fairness for professionals,” she said.

“We urge the government to adopt a new approach to childcare, defined by equality for children, affordability for families and fairness for professionals.”

“It’s time for action. We call on Government to implement a new approach to childcare, one defined by equality, affordability, and fairness. Our children deserve better, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they receive it,” she said.