Childcare subsidies are set to increase from 50c per hour to €1.40.
Under the National Childcare Scheme, families across Waterford will see a reduction in fees being charged.
A family that were previously in receipt of the lowest level of financial support will now be in line to save an additional €2,106 off their annual childcare bill.
Challenging time
The increased subsidy has been welcomed by Elaine Walsh. owner of 'Duine Beag' childcare facility in Dunhill.
However, she warns that this remains a very challenging time for the sector.
Speaking to WLR, she appealed to politicians and decision-makers to take this into consideration.
'I really think that the sector is in crisis, especially ECCE services, they are not receiving any extra funding, in fact they are down thousands of services annually, " she said. "Government funding is not covering the costs incurred by the childcare sector each week."
Using a working example of a local facility who has made the decision to close one of their baby rooms, she said the monies received each week are €600 with a ratio of one staff member for every three children.
She said, "Staff wages are €600, it doesn't take into account heating, food, bills, PRSI, or staff holidays."
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