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27/11/2023
Childcare Providers In 'Desperate Need Of An Executive'
Childcare providers are in "desperate need of an Executive" to receive proper funding to tackle the growing crisis across childcare, Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has said.
Speaking after the Autumn Statement from the British government, the party's childcare spokesperson said: "Yet again we have seen no assistance from the British government for childcare providers.
"I have spoken to many childcare providers and they have told me they are just breaking even, while some are running at a loss.
"They are saying clearly that the British government should have provided financial assistance to help childcare providers meet the rise in the Living Wage.
"This lack of foresight will have a significant impact on not only the providers, workers and parents, but ultimately the quality of care that is given to our children.
"Childcare workers are doing valuable work to support families in our society and it is right that the British government recognises this hard work and dedication through a rise in wages.
"We need an Executive restored now and all parties working together to deliver a fully funded childcare strategy. Childcare providers and families cannot wait any longer."
Speaking after the Autumn Statement from the British government, the party's childcare spokesperson said: "Yet again we have seen no assistance from the British government for childcare providers.
"I have spoken to many childcare providers and they have told me they are just breaking even, while some are running at a loss.
"They are saying clearly that the British government should have provided financial assistance to help childcare providers meet the rise in the Living Wage.
"This lack of foresight will have a significant impact on not only the providers, workers and parents, but ultimately the quality of care that is given to our children.
"Childcare workers are doing valuable work to support families in our society and it is right that the British government recognises this hard work and dedication through a rise in wages.
"We need an Executive restored now and all parties working together to deliver a fully funded childcare strategy. Childcare providers and families cannot wait any longer."
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21 June 2021
Childcare Support Funds Extended
Two Covid-19 childcare support funds are to be extended, Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced. This includes a third phase of the Childcare Sustainability Fund for the period 1 April to 30 June 2021 and the Childcare Covid-19 Temporary Closure Fund from 1 April to 30 September 2021.
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Two Covid-19 childcare support funds are to be extended, Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced. This includes a third phase of the Childcare Sustainability Fund for the period 1 April to 30 June 2021 and the Childcare Covid-19 Temporary Closure Fund from 1 April to 30 September 2021.
24 November 2023
Alliance Welcomes National Minimum Wage Increase
The Alliance Party welcomed a rise in the national minimum wage announced in the Autumn Statement, but warned that without measures to support childcare providers it was a "reciepe for disaster".
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19 June 2019
Families Under Strain This Summer As Childcare Costs Rise
Many parents are set for an "extremely difficult" summer due to increasing childcare costs, a report has found. The average cost of a full-time childcare place in Northern Ireland is £166 per week, equating to over one third of median household incomes, the charity Employers for Childcare has found.
Families Under Strain This Summer As Childcare Costs Rise
Many parents are set for an "extremely difficult" summer due to increasing childcare costs, a report has found. The average cost of a full-time childcare place in Northern Ireland is £166 per week, equating to over one third of median household incomes, the charity Employers for Childcare has found.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
