Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein)

I thank an Cathaoirleach Gníomhach, an tAire agus an Teachta Kerrane. Childcare is the most important element of shaping the future of society. It can enable individuals and families to thrive and develop cohesive communities and help to secure vibrant, safe and sociable environments where children can foster and grow. It is not an exaggeration to say that childcare is the foundation nations are built on. Early years educators are the backbone of this key service and a stepping stone in unfolding and developing the future citizens of our Republic. However, early learning educators' pay and conditions are substandard when compared with those in many other European countries. This is why we in Sinn Féin fully support the alliance for public childcare, led by the National Women's Council, in calling on the Government to implement employment regulation orders, publish the details of its action plan, reduce the cost of childcare and make it more affordable for every child and parent no matter their background recognise the value and importance of early educators and acknowledge pay parity in the context of their experience, qualifications and degrees.

This motion has been tabled to highlight the lack of progress on childcare provision, given that the Government, in particular Fine Gael, stated that a public childcare model would be a key priority if it was returned to Government. One hundred days have passed and we are still waiting for the Government to prioritise the public childcare model. We in Sinn Féin are calling on the Minister to work with Together for Public, consult it on the terms of reference and set a timeframe for an action plan. As the quote goes, "To take children seriously is to value them for who they are right now rather than adults-in-the-making."

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