Mayo parents 'need clarity' on plans to reduce childcare costs

Childcare is a massive issue for young parents in Mayo.

Deputy Alan Dillon said clarity is needed from the government on how it is proposed to reduce fees for parents, improve pay and conditions for staff and increase the number of places available for children.

He stated: "I recently visited two brilliant childcare and early year education services in Mayo.

"There is frustration among some about the lack of co-location of education and childcare services.

"This should be factored into the future capital building projects.

"Early childhood and childcare must become key pillars in the national development plan.

"Parents need to be reassured that the government's new core funding model will address affordability for young parents through an enhanced early childhood care and education scheme and the national childcare scheme."