Hundreds of childcare workers are protesting outside Leinster House today, calling for more investment in the profession.
The Association of Childhood Professionals (ACP) says Ireland spends 0.2% of GDP on the early childhood sector - compared an the OECD average of 0.7%.
Some 25,000 people work in the sector, where the average rate of pay is just €11 an hour.
The ACP say the purpose of the rally is to recognise the vital role played by childhood professionals across the country - many of whom earn little more than the minimum wage.
ACP has said it is receiving "a high degree of support from the sector and is expecting a strong turnout."
The rally is to be addressed by childhood expert Professor Noirín Hayes and politicians - including deputies Ciara Conway and Robert Troy and Senators Cáit Keane and Katherine Zappone.
The rally is being attended and supported by IMPACT, SIPTU, Barnardos, Early Childhood Ireland, the National Women's Council and the Union of Students in Ireland (USI).
Eileen Cotter of Happy Days Playgroup in Belgard in Dublin explains why she is protesting today.
Marian Quinn, chair of the ACP says it is an important stage in a child's development.
