Second pre-school year will be important for children and parents.

Published: Thursday, April 17, 2014

National Women’s Council of Ireland today welcomed the commitment to introduce a second pre-school year for all children  as announced by Minister Frances Fitzgerald at the launch of ‘Better Outcomes: Brighter Future: the National Policy Framework for Children and Young People 2014-2020’

Alice-Mary Higgins, Policy Officer with the NWCI stated; “A second pre-school year will be good for children and good for parents.  It also benefits society as a whole as the lack of access to affordable childcare prevents many women from entering or continuing in employment and participating equally in all areas of life.

“Currently Ireland’s public spending in childcare and early education as a percentage of GDP is amongst the lowest in the OECD while our childcare costs are among the most expensive, often costing between €800 and €1000 per month for a full time place. The commitment to a second pre-school year is therefore a welcome step in the right direction.   Ensuring high quality delivery will be important and we also believe the Government should seek to introduce the second year well in advance of the 2020 deadline indicated. Rolling out this important support in a timely, equitable way is essential in order to ensure that it benefits as many families as possible”.

“Investment in early years delivers long term benefits in a healthier society and economy.  In line with the commitment to supporting parents outlined within the 'Better Outcomes; Brighter Futures' document the Government should also look towards introduction of paid parental leave which could support both parents to balance caring for children with working life.”