From yesterday, childcare fees dropped by 25%.

'The Government and I as Minister have prioritised investment in childcare'

Paula Donohoe operates Clever Clogs Childcare Services in Ballyconnell and had been fighting for these improvements for a number of decades.

'The centre will accommodate 84 children'

It’s reported that the shortage of spaces has forced parents to book places as soon as they become pregnant, or even before conceiving in some cases.

The National Childhood Network is holding its annual conference in Monaghan tomorrow, which will also celebrate 25 years of the organisation.

It's calling on the government to invest an extra 267 million euro in childcare to cut costs for parents.

40 per cent of those in the sector are actively looking for jobs in other industries.