The government’s delayed childcare plan must contain a clear timeline for reducing monthly fees to €200 and begin the process of establishing a public early years model, according to Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly.
Deputy Farrelly, who is the party’s children’s spokesperson, said:
“Prior to last year’s general election, Simon Harris promised to publish a roadmap for reducing childcare costs to €200 per month within the first 100 days of Fine Gael in government. This commitment is now six months behind schedule, with the Early Years Action Plan not due to be published until tomorrow.
“This plan, while belated, will hopefully provide some respite for hard-pressed parents who are struggling under the financial weight of childcare costs. The first phase of the plan is expected to include increases to the income limit for the National Childcare Scheme from next September, which is a welcome step in the right direction.
“However, a piecemeal approach will be of little benefit to parents who deserve to know when their childcare costs will be capped at €200 per month, as promised. We need to see clear timelines set out in the plan for when – and how – this will be achieved.
“In addition, this plan should kickstart the process of establishing a public model of childcare, which is key to resolving the many problems facing the early years sector.
“When it comes to reforming our broken childcare system, the Social Democrats want to see the three Cs – cost, capacity and conditions for workers – properly addressed. It remains to be seen if there will be enough detail in the government’s plan to deliver in these areas.”
December 16, 2025