‘ALL CHILDMINDERS SHOULD BE VETTED’

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NEARLY 90% of Irish adults believe all childminders should be Garda vetted and have basic first aid and other training, a survey revealed.

A total of 64% back the call to make childcare costs made more affordable and for parents to pay in line with their overall income.

This represented a 7% yearly rise in those in favour of the idea, the annual Childcare Barometer 2019 study showed.

Director of policy and advocacy with Early Childhood Ireland Frances Byrne said: “The results once again show widespread public support for a progressive childcare system in Ireland.

“It is particularly noteworthy to see such extensive levels of support for extending regulations around Garda vetting and first aid training to minders.

“That 87% of Irish adults are in favour of Garda vetting and basic training requirements for the sector is testament to the importance of this option for families and shows a clear desire to ensure regulations and supports are extended to all paid childminders – as is envisaged in Government’s First 5 national early years strategy. The increase in support for parents only paying for childcare in line with their income is very notable.

“This follows the introduction of the Affordable Childcare Scheme subsidies for families just over a year ago and reflects a broadened awareness of the benefits for children of quality, accessible early years care. A total of 70% of those polled agreed parents should be financially supported to stay at home for the first 12 months of the child’s life. Among the new questions in this year’s poll was whether parental benefit should be paid at the EU Commission’s recommended rate of 66% of weekly earnings, rather than the current rate of benefit (€240 per week). This proposal carried notable support, with 59% of Irish adults strongly agreeing.

per cent want childcare costs to be made more affordable for families