€30 Million Funding Could Create 3,000 Childcare Places, Alliance Urges Pilot

A campaign alliance, Together for Public, including the National Women’s Council (NWC) and Siptu, announced on Wednesday that €30 million in new funding for early education could create 3,000 new childcare places. They called for this money to be allocated in this year’s budget for a pilot project, which they believe could lead to a model for wider public delivery.

The alliance envisions the government playing a direct role in providing childcare, especially in areas with shortages, but clarified it does not advocate eliminating private providers. They propose the government cover all sector wages to reduce costs for parents and address staffing issues, potentially lowering average weekly costs to €59, close to the government’s promised €200 monthly.

NWC executive director Corrinne Hasson emphasized the need for the government to directly deliver care, not just acquire properties. Gráinne McKenna, from DCU, noted public funding has doubled in seven years to €1.48 billion but needs to double again to match comparable European states and ensure affordability. She stressed the necessity of a 10- to 20-year strategy for sustained investment, positioning the State as a leader in childcare, similar to health and housing.