Government inaction leads to childcare revolt
Eanáir 6, 2015
Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Children Robert Troy TD today announced he fully supports the national protest being planned by childcare professionals on February 17th. Deputy Troy said, “this protest is a result of the frustration felt due to the lack of investment and the total inaction by the Government in this area. This was very evident in the consultation evenings which I arranged with the sector around the country late last year.
Recent reports again highlighting the high cost of childcare together with a revolt by the sector are the result of Government inaction in this area. This was most recently evidenced in the Budget 2015 where Minister Reilly failed to deliver any increase in investment.”
Deputy Troy continued,”Fianna Fáil produced a budget submission which addressed the complexities of issues facing this crucial sector. The proposal entitled The Enabling Strategy put forward three central planks, ‘Enabling Children’ by investing in quality provision, providing equality of opportunity for children with special educational needs and protecting all children through legislation reform. Enabling Parents to improve the life chances of their children by accessing employment and availing of increased choices by making childcare more accessible and affordable.
Enabling the Workforce and Childcare Service Providers by extending eligibility for the Learner Fund, providing appropriate remuneration and working conditions and by activating a national commercial rates exemption clause for government funded early childhood services.
Hopefully this protest on 17th February will act as catalyst and the Government will take notice of the major issues facing this sector. The time for lip service is over. Minister Reilly needs to listen to what the sector are saying and ensure that necessary supports are put in place,” concluded Deputy Troy.
