SDLP Calls Backed By Report on Childcare Workforce and Sufficiency Duty

SDLP Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin has welcomed the Department for the Economy’s decision to establish a new business support service for childcare providers, following the recommendations of research published today entitled Targeted Business Support for Childcare Providers.

Ms McLaughlin said:

“This is a welcome first step and a clear example of the SDLP’s persistent advocacy paying off. For some time, we have called for tailored support for childcare providers, and it is good to see the Department finally respond. Today’s research echoes the issues we have long raised: providers need sector-specific advice and guidance to stay open and plan for the future.

“However, this is only one part of the solution. The report also highlights the urgent need for a Workforce Strategy to tackle the recruitment and retention crisis in childcare, and for a sufficiency duty to ensure enough childcare places are available across Northern Ireland. These are central proposals in the SDLP’s ‘A Childcare Guarantee’, which has long argued that childcare workers deserve fair pay, proper conditions, and clear career pathways – and that families deserve affordable, accessible care wherever they live.

“This shows the difference a strong opposition can make: by holding the Executive to account and putting forward concrete ideas, we can shape policy that works for families and communities. But talk and reports are not enough. If we are serious about tackling the childcare crisis, urgent action is needed – reducing costs for parents, supporting providers, and building a sector fit for purpose.

“Affordable, high-quality childcare is economic infrastructure. It is essential to getting women back into the workforce, securing the future of our young people, and tackling poverty. The publication of this research and today’s announcement must mark a turning point. The Executive must now deliver the full package of reforms, including the long-promised Early Learning and Childcare Strategy. Parents, providers, and children cannot afford further delay.”

ENDS