The high cost of childcare and difficulties in securing childcare places in Dublin is damaging companies’ recruitment efforts and driving employees out of the workforce, according to the Dublin Chamber of Commerce.
In its latest Business Outlook Survey shows, nine out of ten businesses reported that childcare issues are a significant barrier to attracting and retaining staff.
A fifth of respondents said it is their biggest obstacle.
The report also highlighted measures adopted by Dublin businesses to help employees manage childcare-related challenges with nearly three quarters of respondents offering staff options to work remotely and another seven-in-ten providing flexible working arrangements.
According to Dublin Chamber, when it comes to childcare costs as a share of average wages, Ireland ranks the second highest in the OECD and worst in Europe.
It is also pointed out that the cost of childcare in Dublin is higher than the national average.
The outgoing Government introduced initiatives to cut childcare costs for parents but the Dublin Chamber is calling on the next Government to do more.
“We believe that a public model of childcare should be prioritised in the next Programme for Government,” said Mia Finnegan, Public Affairs Executive at Dublin Chamber.
“Moving to a public model will be critical for ensuring a steady supply of affordable, quality childcare and building a more sustainable and diverse labour market.”
“The high cost of childcare is exacerbated by the simple lack of childcare places in Dublin, which has failed to meet the needs of its rapidly growing population,” Ms Finnegan said.
“While recent budgets have reduced costs for many parents, Ireland’s childcare system remains fragmented and unsustainable, placing immense strain on family finances and limiting workforce participation,” she added.
