Record number of families benefitting from subsidised childcare, O'Gorman confirms

A record number of families in Ireland are now benefitting from subsidised early learning and childcare. 

That's according to the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman, who today (January 19) confirmed over 105,000 children now benefit from supports under the National Childcare Scheme. 

Since January 2, the minimum hourly subsidy under the scheme for all children under 15 is €1.40, an increase of €0.90 per hour compared to the year prior. 

For families using Tusla-registered early learning and childcare, this subsidy increase represents further cost reductions of up to €2,106 (or a reduction of up to €3,326 in total) off the annual cost of early learning and childcare for each child. 

The changes are backed by €121 million secured in Budget 2023, bringing the total scheme funding to €358 million. 

Katie, whose child attends Oasis Childcare Centre in Freshford, County Kilkenny, commented on the news and said, "Without the National Childcare Scheme, I would not have been able to go to work as the cost of childcare would cancel out my wages... I would highly recommend national Childcare Scheme to all parents." 

Cristina, whose son who attends Waterville’s Little Stars in Dublin 15, said, "Many parents, especially mothers, think that they have to choose between their careers and motherhood, since childcare costs are so high. Going back to work might look like a financially questionable decision. The National Childcare Scheme [makes] it affordable. The increase in the subsidy rate 'means more money that could go towards food, clothing and other household needs." 

Welcoming today’s announcement, Minister O' Gorman said, "This government is delivering on its promise to make high-quality early learning and childcare more affordable for families and accessible to all children. 

"We have seen huge demand for the National Childcare Scheme since the increase in subsidies was announced as part of Budget 2023, as part of the government’s €1 billion investment in early learning and childcare for 2023." 

The minister is encouraging all eligible families to avail of the supports by visiting www.ncs.gov.ie, calling the Parent Support Centre on 01 906 8530 or talking to their early learning and childcare provider.