Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I want to draw the Taoiseach's attention to a crisis in childcare provision, specifically in south Sligo. Many constituents from Tubbercurry, Gurteen and other parts are genuinely distressed by the lack of childcare provision in the area. Existing providers have long waiting lists and some of them have been closed for two years. This should not come as any surprise, given the results of the SIPTU Big Start on early years staffing survey, which clearly illustrates that low pay and high staff turnover, which are core to the shortage of places, are also central to finding solutions.

A recent emergency meeting was held in Moylough. That meeting recognised the increased work that the Government is doing for the childcare sector, but that this is not solving the current dire situation. Local solutions are being proposed. They are community led and parent led. Will the Minister work with local communities to provide an interim solution?

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