Call for Govt to honour promise to cut childcare costs

The National Women's Council is urging the Government to keep its promise of lowering childcare costs to €200 per child per month in the upcoming Budget. Thousands of children are on waiting lists for available spots, but Executive Director Corrinne Hasson warns that current prices, which can reach €1,800 per child in cities like Dublin, make it impossible for many families to afford childcare even if it were offered.

The 2027 Budget presents an opportunity to invest in the public childcare system, value women, and promote equality, according to the council. Over 46,000 children's names are on waiting lists nationwide, though the actual number may be lower as some are on multiple lists. Anne Waithira Burke, from AkiDwA, a migrant women's network, emphasizes that the high cost and lack of places are a major issue for her members.

She describes the expense as akin to a "mini-mortgage," noting that most people cannot afford €1,000 a month. Burke stresses the importance of proper education for children to thrive and prevent any family or child from being left behind.