SIPTU Community Campaign joins lone parents to say: ‘7 is too young’

‘The community sector has a key role to play in any solution to the issue of childcare provision’ – SIPTU

EXPANDING community childcare through the Community Employment programme could deliver the quality and affordable service everyone needs, the SIPTU Community Campaign says.

The SIPTU Community Campaign call came at a press conference with SPARK and other lone-parent organisations in saying ‘7 is too young’ and calling for a review of Section 4 of the Social Welfare Bill 2012 restricting Lone Parents Allowance for families whose youngest child is over seven years of age.

SIPTU Community Sector Organiser Darragh O’Connor said:

“As childcare provision is a key part of any solution for lone parents accessing work, I welcome the statement by the Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton that the One Parent Family Payment will only be restricted if a credible commitment on childcare provision is given by the Government.

“The community sector has a key role to play in any solution to the issue of childcare provision. By expanding on the existing infrastructure and utilising Community Employment, the state could deliver a childcare service that is not only high-quality and affordable for parents but also cost effective for Government.”

Darragh O’Connor called for a joint approach between the relevant Government departments and stakeholders to address childcare needs.

“It is almost universally accepted that investment in quality childcare yields huge returns for communities. As part of an overall growth strategy a comprehensive childcare system must be a priority.”