Organisation with Clare members publishes Budget 2024 submission
CALLING the government to consider Irelands ‘youngest citizens’ when drafting the Budget 2024 is what one organisation is now doing.
Early Childhood Ireland is the leading children’s advocacy and membership organisation and currently has 143 members in Clare.
The group has published its Budget 2024 submission, calling on the government to build on public funding commitments, as well as unifying the existing funding programmes, such as the National Childcare Scheme (NCS), Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and Core Funding.
“The Irish Early Years and School Age Care system is under significant pressure, despite a committed workforce and unprecedented investment,” said Frances Byrne, Director of Policy at Early Childhood Ireland.
“The Government needs to ensure that Budget 2024 strengthens and enhances current levels of quality so that every child can have access to consistently high-quality education and care in settings and in childminders’ homes.”
In its Budget submission, the organisation outlines five key proposals which build on existing provisions and policies but would also be transformative for the sector.
“Collectively, these measures would vindicate children’s rights as part of a world-class Early Years and School Age Care system and support all families regardless of their individual circumstances.
“An inclusive Early Years and School Age Care system creates a more equitable society for all, especially those living in poverty or experiencing other disadvantages.
“We urge the government to use Budget 2024 to take vital steps toward delivering high-quality services to all children in Ireland,” Frances Byrne added.