SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone has said that a childcare costs report published by the Employers for Childcare Charity underscores the urgent need to implement the SDLP’s ambitious childcare strategy.
The report outlines that full-time childcare places are more expensive than the average mortgage payment and that 46% of parents were forced to reduce their working hours or leave work entirely because of the cost of childcare.
Mr McGlone said: “Today’s childcare costs report from Employers for Childcare is stark. It shows the cost to parents of securing childcare is rising at an above-inflation rate and that many are forced to take drastic action to address this problem.
“It is incredible that an average full-time childcare place costs more to working parents than their weekly mortgage payments, leaving many with virtually no disposable income.
“The net result of that scandalous position is that 46% of parents surveyed had to reduce their working hours or leave work altogether to cope with childcare arrangements.
“That has a significant negative impact on our economy as well as the career prospects and earning power of those forced out of work.
“Much has been made of the need to reform the welfare system, but we have been calling for a substantial programme of work reform that addresses issues like childcare.
“How can we ever hope to move people from welfare into work when the cost of work is financially crippling for so many?
“The SDLP has published ambitious proposals to double the allocation of free childcare across the North.
“We have also raised the issue during the current talks process and will continue to press for a comprehensive programme of welfare and work reform that meets the needs of people here.
“The outcome of the Talks will tell the tale about the commitment of parties to tackling this issue.
“We are serious about supporting working parents and it’s imperative that our strategy is implemented,” added the Mid-Ulster MLA.
