Mayo concerns over childcare workers 'being driven out of profession'

A Mayo Oireachtas member has called on the Minister for Children Roderic O'Gorman to support childcare workers in the challenges they face.

Deputy Alan Dillon said he also needs to respond in a meaningful manner to recognise their qualifications and the important and enormous contribution they make to our society.

He elaborated: "Their professionalism came to the fore in the worst of the pandemic to ensure our essential frontline workers could work to protect our families.

"I acknowledge the published research which indicates that workers employed in the early care sector in Ireland are paid less than their counterparts in other countries.

"Early years professionals are struggling to make ends meet.

"This is driving them out of the profession they love dearly and leading to a huge issue for childcare providers in finding staff."