Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Children and Youth Affairs Anne Rabbitte TD says stop gap measures need to be considered by Government to prevent an exodus of childcare workers over the next number of months.
“From last night until March 29th approximately 4,500 crèches across the country are closed. This will remain under review but there is a thinking this closure could be extended. This is a stark situation for the thousands of childcare workers who may find themselves out of work.
“It is imperative the Government look at stop gap measures to retain childcare workers during this time. I understand this could cost €12m per month but would prevent a crisis in childcare when things do begin to return to normality.
“The reality is childcare facilities and childcare workers are facing big decisions. A number of our childcare workers are from abroad and they may consider returning home to their EU countries if they become unemployed for the foreseeable future. We cannot allow this situation to develop for the future of the sector.
“I am calling on the Minister for Children, Minister for Finance, and Minister for Social Protection to consider these temporary measures during this developing crisis,” concluded Deputy Rabbitte.
