LIMERICK TD Willie O’Dea has warned the Government that it is facing a crisis in childcare because it is failing to take action to address spiralling costs.
Deputy O’Dea says escalating crèche and preschool prices in Limerick are forcing many parents to give up work because they can no longer afford the extortionate costs.
Speaking ahead of a Fianna Fáil Private Members motion on the issue, Deputy O’Dea commented: “Over the past four years, childcare costs have soared in Limerick. Many families are paying the equivalent of a second mortgage on childminding bills, with the average cost for two children standing at around €12,000 a year in Limerick.
“I have spoken to parents who are under extreme financial pressure and are worried about the implications of rising costs. The current situation is forcing some to consider leaving the workplace to look after their children and ease the financial burden.”
Deputy O’Dea says the Government “has done nothing” to help parents, and that its “unwillingness to tackle the issue has exacerbated an already difficult situation”.
According to the Limerick City TD, Fianna Fáil will present “an enhanced childcare policy” ahead of the General Election.
He concluded: “We want to ensure that parents who want to return to work can do so without being confronted with extortionate childcare fees. Along with a tax credit, Fianna Fáil has proposed a childcare subsidy for families who are above the threshold for the Family Income Supplement.”
