Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has welcomed new proposals for a 10% pay increase for Early Years Educators and School-Age Childcare Practitioners.
The local TD described it as a "big step" in delivering on the Government's promise of affordable, high-quality childcare.
The pay rise, recommended by the Joint Labour Committee, would benefit over 35,000 childcare professionals across the country.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Smith said this is "good news" for childcare workers, parents, and children.
The Government has set aside €45 million in Core Funding to make sure services can afford these pay increases without passing costs on to parents.
Deputy Smith believes people who care for and educate our children deserve fair pay for the vital work they do. He also hopes this increase will help attract and keep skilled staff in the sector.
The local TD explained; "Parents want affordable options, and children deserve the best start in life. By supporting those working in childcare, we're helping ensure that families have more choice, better services, and peace of mind. Better pay will help attract more workers into the sector, giving parents more options and greater access to affordable, high-quality childcare."
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley recently met with the Joint Labour Committee to highlight the availability of this €45 million in Core Funding from the state for increased pay for staff in the early years and childcare sector. The money has been specifically earmarked to support services in meeting the cost of the proposed increases in pay and conditions.
Minister Foley said: "I am hopeful that these proposals will soon come into effect, marking a positive change for our dedicated and skilled staff in the early learning and childcare sector and the services that employ them."
"If these proposals are implemented through updated Employment Regulation Orders, they will bring much-needed improvements in pay for these dedicated professionals, enhancing the quality of care and education provided to children across Ireland."
"I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the Joint Labour Committee in these negotiations and their vital role in advancing the professionalism and value of those working in the sector.
