“We know that investing in high quality early childcare reaps rewards later in life."

East Meath Fine Gael General Election Candidate, Cllr Sharon Tolan has said that a vote for Fine Gael is a vote for €200 childcare per month per child.

“The party is seeking to build upon the 50% reduction in fees achieved in recent years” Cllr Tolan said, “there is no doubt that childcare remains a huge cost to families in Meath and across the country.

“I know from speaking to people on the doors, the reduction in fees has been much welcome but childcare remains a significant cost for families.

“The current cost is a barrier to people who want to get back into the workforce. At a time of full employment, we need to address this to ensure people who want to work, can work.

“It is appropriate that the State plays a more active role in childcare, given the importance of providing the best care to our most precious citizens.

“Having access to affordable, high quality, flexible childcare is crucial for families in Meath East, to support families to balance work and care responsibilities.

“Families across Meath East will be aware of the existing significant role the State plays, through the likes of the national childcare subsidy scheme.

“But there is so much more that can be done. There is no reason, for example, why we shouldn’t be building new childcare facilities alongside new primary school buildings.

“Fine Gael in government has delivered in this area in recent years, with this 50% reduction in fees, stability and sustainability for providers, and pay increases for staff in the sector.

“Despite progress made in the area, Fine Gael wants the State to step in and do more to meet the unmet needs in our area.

“Childcare providers and staff in Meath East provide a fantastic service to our children, and further improvements to the sector will be delivered in consultation with them.

“We know that investing in high quality early childcare reaps rewards later in life.

“Fine Gael wants to ensure the best start for every child and delivering childcare for €200 per month per child will be a key part of this,” Tolan concluded.