Sinn Fein say 10 per day childcare plan could be in place by next year if party was in government

Mary Lou McDonald emphasized that the high costs of childcare, often compared to a second mortgage, impact parents' work hours and especially affect women's careers.

McDonald argued that investing in a modern childcare system is crucial, describing it as one of the smartest investments a government could make.

Sinn Féin proposes capping daily childcare costs at €10 per child, alongside a €1.50 pay increase for early years educators, aiming to make childcare more accessible.

Claire Kerrane criticized current state funding as inadequate, stressing Sinn Féin's proposals as minimal yet essential for improving the affordability and accessibility of childcare.

Read at Irish Independent