Monaghan families need real targeted family friendly policies to support them and offer real choice and flexibility in how they raise their children.
That’s according to Aontú’s Monaghan Rep, Olivia Larkin, who says that countless people across the county have come to her to outline their struggle as they try and navigate the ongoing frustration and difficulties in finding childcare for their children.
She says
“Having spoken to countless families across Monaghan, I know first-hand how many are struggling to find creche and childcare places,” said Olivia Larkin. “This crisis has been worsening for years, yet the government is failing to deliver solutions. It shows no urgency whatsoever in trying to get to grips with the situation and is lacking in vision around this critical issue.”
Aontú believes that policies must give parents choice on who minds their children . Whether a parent chooses to stay at home, work part-time, or full-time, the state should support those choices, not restrict them.
We are challenging the current government approach, which focuses taxpayer money solely on subsidising formal childcare providers like creches and playschools. “This narrow policy overlooks the invaluable role of childminders and family members who care for children every day,” Larkin added. “Childcare workers deserve fair wages reflecting the vital contribution they make. At the same time, families should not be penalised for choosing alternative childcare arrangements.”
To create fairness and equality, Aontu proposes the following specific policies:
- Introduce tax credits for families whose children are cared for by childminders or family members, equalising support with what creches and playschools receive through state subsidies.
- Ensure all childcare workers receive proper, fair wages recognizing their invaluable contribution to early childhood development.
- Provide flexible parental supports, including enhanced maternity and paternity leave options and financial incentives for part-time work arrangements, so parents can tailor work and care to their family’s needs.
- Expand direct financial support to families, empowering them to choose whether to stay at home, work part-time, or full-time without financial penalty or disadvantage.
- Offer accessible information and resources to help families make informed choices about childcare options best suited to their unique circumstances.
“In these challenging times, no family should feel forced into one option. Our policies ensure every family in Monaghan—and across Ireland—has the freedom and financial support to make the best decisions for their children’s care and wellbeing. The Government has an absolute duty to make real provision for this in the upcoming Budget”.
