I’ve monitored many budgets over the years from a #childcare point of view. I don’t think I’ve ever been as disappointed as this year. Feels like this sector was an afterthought this year.

This sector reopened before every other education sector, on June 29, to the joy of children and families. This despite pre-existing staff shortages and a staff turnover of over 40% in some parts of our sector.

Irish parents pay more than their European counterparts.

Despite Government assertions critical nature of the #childcare sector, and the importance of investing in the early years, it has been virtually ignored.

Where are the measures to retain staff, the measures to address affordability? How will we stop even more of our qualified staff from becoming SNAs?