Labour’s Senator Marie Sherlock has raised a crucial issue that has been long overdue for attention in Ireland: the need for a public, universal early childhood education and care system. In her impassioned plea, Senator Sherlock highlighted the urgent need for accessible childcare services for families across the country, particularly in areas like Dublin 1, 3, 7, 9, and 11, where parents are struggling to find basic childcare services. She emphasized that the lack of provision in these areas is forcing parents to make impossible choices between their work and family life.
The Senator’s call for a universal, state-led childcare service is not only timely but also necessary in addressing the inequalities and challenges faced by families in accessing quality childcare. She rightly pointed out that for-profit models have led to inequitable access, particularly evident in Dublin’s North-East Inner City, where one in four children cannot secure a free preschool place. This disparity is unacceptable and underscores the need for a comprehensive and inclusive childcare system that caters to all families, regardless of their socio-economic background.
Senator Sherlock’s proposal for a bold new approach to childcare, with a €60 million investment to establish the groundwork for a national public childcare system, is a step in the right direction. The call for an immediate cap on childcare fees, with a €200 monthly limit, is a crucial move to ensure that no family is priced out of accessing quality care. This move to make childcare more affordable and accessible for every family is a basic necessity, not a luxury, as Senator Sherlock rightly pointed out.
Moreover, the issue of fair pay and working conditions for early years’ educators cannot be overlooked. These professionals play a vital role in shaping the future generation, yet they are some of the most underpaid workers in the country. The current system of funding workers through providers has proven to be ineffective, leading to many highly trained early years educators leaving the sector due to inadequate pay. Senator Sherlock’s call for early years workers to be paid directly by the State, similar to primary and secondary teachers, is a significant and necessary step towards recognizing the value of their work and ensuring their financial stability.
The proposal to cap childcare fees at €200 monthly is not only aimed at making childcare more affordable for families but also at improving the pay and conditions for childcare workers. By treating these professionals with fairness and respect, Labour aims to build a sustainable, high-quality childcare system that benefits both families and workers. This move aligns with the National Women’s Council’s advocacy for meaningful change in the childcare sector and highlights the urgency of addressing the national crisis of affordable, accessible childcare.
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