Sinn Fein have announced a motion which aims to give families a break by cutting childcare costs, provide fair wages and establish a sustainability fund for providers.
The party’s children’s spokeswoman, Carlow-Kilkenny TD Kathleen Funchion has said she is hoping for cross-party support for the Private Member’s Bill.
The motion, which will be introduced in the Dáil on Tuesday, calls on the Government to commit to delivering a State childcare system in Budget 2022.
Ms Funchion said Ireland has some of the highest childcare fees in the world.
She said: “Sinn Féin will bring a motion to the Dáil calling on the government to reduce childcare fees by delivering a state childcare system in Budget 2022.
“For many families, childcare amounts to the same costs as an extra mortgage each and every month.
“Across the state, families are struggling to pay the costs of these eye watering fees.
“This has to change.
“It is clear that there is a cost of living crisis in Ireland and too many families are facing huge bills while the government does nothing to help.”
The Sinn Fein motion also pledges better pay and working conditions for early years and childcare professionals.
Ms Funchion said those working in the early years sectors are highly qualified and skilled, yet are often paid minimum wage.
She added: “Sinn Féin in government would put money back in parents’ pockets by cutting the cost of childcare fees, addressing the low wages and ensuring providers that are struggling keep their doors open.
“Budget 2022 is fast approaching and Sinn Féin are calling on the government to cut childcare costs by delivering a State childcare system in the Budget.
“Our detailed and fully costed proposals would cut fees by one third within the first year and then by two thirds thereafter.
“I am calling on all TDs to stand up for families, early years professionals and providers and back my motion when it comes before the Dáil tomorrow.”
