Childcare Workers Say Sector Is At Breaking Point

The union representing childcare workers is warning that the sector is at breaking point, with a growing staffing crisis and more than 40,000 children now on waiting lists for places. SIPTU says up to €45 million in State funding earmarked for pay increases is at risk, as employers continue to engage in negotiations. The union has described the situation as unacceptable, warning that low pay is driving staff out of the sector—and that stronger action may be on the horizon if talks don’t begin soon. To discuss this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Noel Mulderrig, Co-Owner of Kidz Haven in Shannon, and Diane Jackson, SIPTU organiser. Image © Alamy via Canva