Childcare providers across Ireland have embarked on a three-day strike, shutting down creches and demanding increased state funding. The protest, centered at Leinster House, is organized by the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, which claims that 97 creches have closed since March due to financial strain.
Elaine Dunne, Chair of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, emphasized the severe impact of underfunding, stating, “Our members have salaries to pay, alongside the cost of food, heating, utilities, bank charges, rates, maintenance, and upgrade costs. Adequate provision must be made if the government wants to support a healthy labor market.”
Children’s Minister Roderic O’Gorman acknowledged historical underinvestment in childcare in Ireland and expressed his commitment to securing more funding, stating, “We’ve made significant progress in recent years, and in this year’s budget, I’m looking to continue growing that investment.” He also aims to reduce costs for parents, improve staff pay, and ensure the sustainability of childcare providers.
The strike highlights the urgent need for increased state funding to safeguard the nation’s childcare services.