Dublin South East Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Campaign to reverse childcare cuts must be intensified

Published: 9 November, 2004

Sinn Féin Representative for Dublin South East, Councillor Daithí Doolan, speaking prior to a meeting in Leinster House between Sinn Féin and the  Dublin Childcare Committee said "there is no  issue more important for parents, families, communities and indeed children than the provision of proper and adequate childcare facilities."

Councillor Doolan said:

"Communities across Dublin are facing a childcare crisis. Parents, who want to re-train, return to work or return to education  cannot do so because of the lack of child care facilities. After seven years in office this government have completely failed to tackle this issue and have made matters worse through petty, penny-pinching cuts in Crèche Supplement and VTOS childcare support.

"In recent days I have spoken with several crèche managers in Dublin South East and it is clear to me that these cuts are putting an enormous strain on communities.

"Sinn Féin's priority is to turn this situation around. Parents need assistance with the cost of childcare and we are proposing a substantial increase in childcare supplement to be paid as a top-up for Child Benefit for children under the age of five. We will be working with the Dublin Childcare Committee and other groups across Dublin to campaign for comprehensive childcare to be provided as a matter of urgency."

In conclusion Cllr. Doolan demanded that the Minister for Social, Community & Family Affairs, Seamus Brennan "immediately reverse the cuts to the crèche supplement and VTOS childcare support. These are two of the most vicious cuts carried out by the current government." ENDS