Earlier today, the Minister for Children Norma Foley presented plans to Cabinet to buy buildings that will provide childcare facilities. This is part of a new plan to create State-led early learning centres.

Each building will deliver more than 100 places, with up to 800 places available by early 2027.

This is all part of the Government’s promise to deliver €200 a month childcare within its five-year term.

But, will it solve the childcare issues of funding and staff retention?

To discuss, Ciara is joined by Elaine Dunne, Chair of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers and Noel Mulderrig, Co-Owner of Kidz Haven Creche, Shannon, Co. Clare.