Govt may introduce tax break for childminders - Harris

The Minister for Finance, Simon Harris, has hinted at the possibility of introducing a tax break for childminders in the upcoming Budget. During a meeting with EU Finance Ministers, Harris expressed his willingness to consider the measure as the Coalition finalises the specifics of Budget 2027, set to be announced in two weeks' time.

Other senior Coalition figures have also indicated their support for reducing the cost of home heating oil for households, but this is not expected to come through a VAT cut, despite industry advocacy for such a move. The Minister reiterated his stance against abolishing stamp duty for first-time buyers, despite Taoiseach Michael Martin's expressed support for the idea.

Currently, self-employed childminders can earn up to €15,000 gross annually tax-free, but the Government has been urged to make childcare more affordable and accessible. Harris mentioned that a tax relief could be explored within his department to support home-based childminders, noting that such a measure has not been increased in recent years.

Childcare is identified as a priority area in the Budget, with both the Taoiseach and Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers confirming their commitment to addressing the cost of kerosene, or home heating oil, in the upcoming Budget.