The excessive high cost of childcare in Ireland was discussed at Ryston Social Centre on Wednesday last at our Childcare Seminar. Deputy Robert Troy, FF spokesperson on Children addressed the attendance, and compared the comparative costs for families in Ireland with European services.
“In Europe, an average of 12% of a family’s income is spent on childcare as opposed to here in Ireland, where a family with two children in childcare will spend an average of 35% of the family income” stated Deputy Troy.
I addressed the crisis facing Co Kildare families trying to pay rent, or save for a mortgage deposit. As prices and rents continue to rise, with the Kildare housing market experiencing an increase of 12.5% last year, the excessive costs for professional childcare services place an excessive burden on the family budget..
I also feel strongly that the high cost of childcare is impeding many women from returning to the workplace. Statistics show that only 52% of women with children aged 4-5 years old are in employment, compared to 86% for women without children. Why should women not utilise their training/education and further their career because they can’t afford to meet childcare costs!
Denise Keane, Nutritionist 
Denise Keane, Nutritionist and author of Irish Paleo Girl website, also spoke on nutrition and healthy eating for children with Ireland having one of the highest records in obesity amongst young children within Europe.
“Children are particularly at risk of poor health due to bad diet” said Denise. “We are seeing children being diagnosed with conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, a condition previously reserved for adults. Obesity rates in children and young adults is on the increase. It’s time we looked at the amount of sugar in our children’s diets and realised the importance of setting a good foundation for nutrition in early childhood. We as parents have a responsibility to guide our children with good nutrition”.
The low wages of professional, qualified childcare workers was also discussed with many earning from €9-14 per hour.
Deputy Troy stated FF’s Manifesto proposed an investment of €122m into professionalising the Childcare Sector and making it more affordable to all with TAX Credits to alleviate annual childcare costs, an universal 2nd Free Pre-School Year and more supports for the integration of children with special needs into the childcare services.
My thanks to those who attended; to Deputy Troy for what was a very informative, engaging discussion on Childcare and to Denise who delivered a compelling address on nutrition and healthy diet for children.