Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Childcare has become a significant issue for both parents and childcare professional, posing challenges to both groups in terms of cost for parents and proper pay for those working in the childcare sector. The cost of childcare is placing an unbearable burden on many parents. In some cases, it has led to mothers leaving the workforce because of the enormous financial strain on family finances caused by the high cost of childcare, which can be as high as a mortgage payment for some. Additionally, despite their qualifications and responsibilities, childcare professionals do not receive proper remuneration for their work. These issues need to be addressed as a matter of urgency. I hope the Minister will follow through on some of things he has said he will do.

These are not new issues, as we have been raising and talking about them for years in the House. It is essential that childcare is made more affordable for parents and that there is proper investment by Government in the childcare sector. Investing in childcare is not only an investment in our future but it also benefits families and society as a whole. Affordable and reliable childcare allows parents to participate fully in the workforce without compromising their children's well-being. It reduces stress among parents by providing them with peace of mind, knowing that their children are well cared for while they work. Proper remuneration for childcare professionals is crucial. They need to be paid a wage that properly reflects the value of their skills and responsibilities and the importance of their work. This will also ensure retention rates in the sector are improved and there is not an adverse turnover of professionals in the sector. Making childcare more affordable and accessible will not only benefit families but will also have long-term positive impacts on society as a whole. Sinn Féin proposes that childcare fees be cut by two thirds from 2022 levels through increased investment because quality childcare is an investment in the future of our children and ensures their wellbeing and development while supporting working families contributing to the economy.

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