Cuts to childcare costs to benefit over 150,000 children in Ireland – Seery-Kearney

Families across the country are set to benefit from reductions to full time and early learning childcare service costs, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

From September 1st 2024, all families accessing registered early learning and childcare will receive a minimum hourly universal National Childcare Scheme (NCS) subsidy of €2.14 off their out-of-pocket costs, up from a current hourly rate of €1.40.

Senator Mary Seery Kearney said: “Our goal in Fine Gael is to support families across Ireland by reducing the economic pressures of childcare. These updates to the National Childcare Scheme are a direct response to the needs voiced by parents across the country, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive early learning environment.”

“As part of this commitment, families receiving the NCS universal subsidy will see a further 25% average reduction in the cost of using full time early learning and childcare services.

“For families on the universal subsidy, this will mean up to €5,007 off their annual bill per child. This represents up to an additional €1,731 off the annual cost of early learning and childcare per child following the most recent changes.

“This initiative will ensure that more families can benefit from the valuable early learning opportunities that shape the foundational years of children’s lives.

“Additionally, starting in September 2024, families using registered childminders will be able to avail of the NCS for the first time—a move that broadens the scope of the scheme and acknowledges the diverse childcare needs of modern Irish families.

“Fine Gael continues to champion the welfare of Ireland’s families, reinforcing its promise to ensure that every child receives the best possible start in life.

“This is coupled by €331m Core Funding provided directly to early learning and childcare services works to ensure that providers can continue in their work while providing fee management and financial transparency.

“By reducing the burden of childcare and expanding access to quality services, we are making a strong investment in our children’s future and in the economic wellbeing of families across Ireland.” Senator Seery Kearney concluded.