Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In the budget we took a major step forward in providing funding to deal with pay and conditions within the early childcare sector. I agree that career pathways have to be developed in early education and early childcare. The funding has increased dramatically, from approximately €69 million to €207 million through to 2023, to facilitate that. A joint labour committee has been formed and there will be engagement between employers and trade unions. The trade unions will be well aware of the provision. I want the mechanisms of the joint labour committee to get going so we can get this stage of investment in childcare organised by the autumn, and then in the budget do even more for childcare in terms of affordability, access and provision.

See this speech in context