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

The more significant commitment is improving the status, pay and conditions of workers, in conjunction with the social partners in terms of a new JLC framework for people working in the childcare sector, which gives sustainability and continuity to the childcare sector in terms of a career pathway. That is key and crucial. In terms of the reduction in childcare costs, parents did feel the fee freeze last year in their pockets. They have said this to me. Probably one of the most significant cuts in childcare costs happened last year. I accept Deputy Whitmore's advocacy for this year.

There are budget negotiations under way. There is a week to go and there will be full clarity in respect of that next week.

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