SINN Féin TD for Kerry Pa Daly has called on all TDs in Kerry to support a Sinn Féin motion published today, compelling the Government to enact reforms in the Childcare sector.

He said: “The cost of childcare has been allowed to spiral to eye-watering amounts which simply aren’t affordable for ordinary families. In Kerry, the average family can expect to spend up to €174 per week and Ireland has some of the highest childcare costs in the EU. This is unfair and unsustainable. Without affordable childcare, many parents and mothers in particular, are being forced out of the workplace.”

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“Sinn Féin has today brought forward an ambitious and comprehensive plan for the childcare sector. It includes yearly funding increases for the sector to ensure long-term sustainability, as well reducing fees charged to parents to ensure lower, fairer costs for families. It also pledges better pay and working conditions for staff. Workers in the early years sectors are highly qualified and skilled, yet are often paid minimum wage. They deserve fair pay.”

“The pandemic wage subsidy was crucial for the childcare sector. But as it comes to an end, after already being reduced to 85%, we face an even bigger crisis- increased fees, lower wages and potential closure of facilities which will only worsen the childcare crisis. That’s why we’re calling for the restoration of the 100% wage subsidy scheme to prevent this from happening. I am calling on TDs from all parties in this area to back this motion when it comes to the Dáil on Thursday.”