The government’s decision to renege on promises to roll out a public model of childcare is shortsighted and lacking in ambition, according to Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly.
Deputy Farrelly said:
“I’m deeply disappointed that there’s been no mention of the provision of public childcare in the Minister for Children’s action plan for the sector.
“There are no details of State-led childcare services in the Minister’s announcement, which is in stark contrast with the commitments and promises from Government representatives during the 2024 General Election campaign.
“I welcome the progressive points of the government’s new early learning and childcare proposals, but it remains essential that public consultation informs the framework for the future of this essential public service.
“The increase in the threshold for financial supports from Autumn 2026 is a vital and welcome announcement from the Minister, but we must be more ambitious when it comes to childcare.
“The department’s commitment to engaging in a public consultation in 2026 for phase 2 of this plan will be a critical exercise in bringing the medium and long-term aspects of this plan to fruition.
“The Minister has left a bag of coal under the tree for parents, workers and providers this Christmas.”
December 17th, 2025