Sinn Féin MLA Nicola Brogan has said the Executive must work together to deliver a strategy which makes high quality childcare affordable for all families.

The West Tyrone MLA said:

“High-quality, affordable early years and childcare is absolutely essential in ensuring parents can get to work while also giving young people – including those with Special Educational Needs – the best start in life.

“Childcare plays an important role in tackling disadvantage – so it is good for society and the economy.

“At present, childcare costs are too high and unaffordable for many, and at a time of rising living costs is adding more financial pressure to families.

“Childcare providers are struggling to keep their doors open due to increased operating costs and facing difficulties in recruiting to, and retaining, their workforce.

“We need a childcare strategy that delivers high quality care for our children, affordability for parents, sustainability for providers, and which values the childcare workforce.

“I welcome support for today’s motion. We now need to see action from the Minister of Education, to work with all parties, childcare providers and workers, and families, to prioritise making high quality childcare affordable and accessible for all.”