SDLP Councillor Mary Durkan
The Assembly previously backed the SDLP proposal for a radical approach to childcare provision which was subsequently hampered by the collapse of Stormont.
Cllr Durkan has argued that in the intervening period the situation has worsened for many families.
She has called upon Council support to ensure that a restored Executive will prioritise this vital legislation in its Programme for Government.
Said Cllr Durkan: “Burdensome childcare costs are creating barriers for working parents and their families.
“It is completely unacceptable that in 2019 parents, particularly mothers, are being forced to choose between caring for a child and a fulfilling career.
“Many households here are experiencing in-work poverty.
“Some parents are skipping meals in order to put food on the table for their children.
“Many families are struggling to heat their homes and to pay utility bills.
“This relatively small universal provision could be potentially life-changing for many working parents- relieving the financial pressures of childcare and affording parents the opportunity to return to work.
“A reformed childcare system will also bring benefits to our economy, including diversifying the workforce and creating jobs in the childcare sector.
“The importance of childcare as an economic enabler cannot be overlooked.
“Any restored Executive must prioritise legislation for an affordable, accessible and high-quality childcare system in its Programme for Government.
“I hope council will back my motion to support the Childcare for all Charter, calling for a universal, child-centred childcare system to meet the needs of children, parents, childcare providers and communities.
“This is an important workers’ rights issue.
“In short, we are seeking to create a fairer society whereby no family is forced into spiralling debts in an effort to cover childcare costs,“ she added.
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