Has the Government earmarked childcare for future cuts?

Published: Monday, February 02, 2009

The National Women's Council of Ireland (NWCI) is seriously concerned at the targeting of childcare in the statement made by the Taoiseach, Brian Cowen TD. in the Dail today (3 Feb 2009). The NWCI is apprehensive that the government is sending a clear signal to all parents, particularly women, that supporting childcare is a luxury which cannot be afforded in the current economic recession. The NWCI also recognises that the cut to the Early Childcare Supplement will have an impact on after-school childcare.

The Government's Framework Document agreed with the Social Partners, stresses the need 'to maximise employment' and 'keep people working where feasible'. Supporting parents to pay for childcare is critical in order to sustain employment levels. The NWCI have vigorously campaigned for the need to provide a universal, publicly subsidised childcare infrastructure so that all parents would have their childcare costs subsidised in an equitable and progressive manner. While the Early Childcare Supplement is not appropriately targeted; it is the only support which parents receive. Unlike other costs, childcare costs have either remained at 2008 levels or increased. The reduction announced today will leave parents with €83 per month to put towards a childcare bill of €800 to €1000 per month. The cost of childcare is a significant factor in decisions which women make regarding employment. Reducing supports for women with children is a short-sighted measure which will not help Ireland move out of recession. The NWCI is therefore urging the government today to see that investing in childcare is part of building a sustainable economy and that no further cuts to any childcare measure should be on the government's agenda.