Abstract
This chapter charts the divisive debate that obstructed the development of public funded childcare in Ireland. A tension emerged between a liberal equality commodification of childcare and the contrary demand for a caregiver parity model of childcare. The government response was to defer policy implementation as several commissions and committees deliberated on the issue. EU funding played a major role in funding and developing childcare by the community and voluntary sector with an orientation towards social inclusion; a sector that still provides limited public childcare. However, private childcare provision remains unaffordable, mothers rely on informal care or remain at home to look after children. The Barcelona European Council objectives (2002) for the provision of childcare for children over 3 years also assisted the introduction of the Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme in 2010, which offers free universal childcare for 15 h a week.
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Notes
- 1.
Family Income Supplement (FIS) is a weekly tax-free payment available to employees with children. It gives extra financial support to people on low pay. You cannot qualify for FIS if you are only self-employed – you must be an employee to qualify. You must have at least one child who normally lives with you or is financially supported by you.
- 2.
A medical card issued by the Health Service Executive (HSE) allows the holder to receive certain health services free of charge. To qualify for a medical card your weekly income must be below a certain figure for your family size. Certain people who do not qualify for a medical card may apply for a GP (family doctor) Visit Card. GP Visit Cards allow individuals and families who qualify, to visit their family doctor for free.
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Mahon, E., Bailey, J. (2015). The Incomplete Revolution: Development of Childcare Policies in Ireland. In: Kutsar, D., Kuronen, M. (eds) Local Welfare Policy Making in European Cities. Social Indicators Research Series, vol 59. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-16163-1_10
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