Fine Gael is working to reduce childcare costs and alleviate the pressure on parents – Byrne

A focus on childcare within the upcoming Budget 2023 is vital to alleviate the pressures faced by parents, a Fine Gael Senator has said. Parents across Ireland are facing the difficult decision between working while facing excessive childcare costs or staying at home to avoid the financial burden, according to Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson on Finance, Senator Maria Byrne.

Senator Byrne said, ““Fine Gael is working to build local childcare services that best meet local needs. We want to deliver affordability and flexibility for parents. And we want to sustain quality in the sector, ensuring a better career path for childcare workers.

“I’ve met with many families who have said that one person cannot work due to the excessive childcare costs they face; it does not make sense for them financially. All parents should have the opportunity to work and not be hindered by childcare costs.

“Additionally, we need to tackle the shortage in places. One public childcare facilitator mentioned they have a 45 place wait list. These waits are only going to increase should more childcare providers leave the market”, said Senator Byrne.

“Improving pay and conditions in the sector was also highlighted as a priority during a meeting held by Senator Byrne recently titled ‘The Future of Childcare’.

“Core Funding, a scheme worth €221m introduced in last year’s Budget, is designed to facilitate a partnership between the State and ELC/SAC services for the public good. It aims to improve pay and conditions in the sector as a whole and to improve affordability for parents by initially freezing fees, as well as ensuring a fair income to providers.

“Fine Gael will continue working to reduce the cost of childcare for all families. This year’s Budget must go further and substantially cut the cost of childcare for all parents. The bottom line is no parent should have to choose between working and childcare”, Senator Byrne concluded.