SIPTU Big Start: Early Years Staffing Survey 2021

Written By Big Start Campaign Team

The survey results are in; low pay is causing a staffing crisis in Early Years. 

This week we presented the findings of the 'Early Years Staffing Survey 2021' to TDs and Senators at a special Oireachtas briefing.

The report shows just how bad things are:

  • 42% of Early Years staff are actively looking for a job in a different profession

  • Low pay is the biggest issue pushing staff to leave

  • 70% of managers found it 'extremely difficult' to recruit staff

  • The recruitment crisis is impacting on quality for children

Our profession is in crisis; the solution is funding for a pay deal. 

Pay Talks & Budget 2022 

The best way to improve pay and conditions is by negotiating a pay deal. Just like the teachers and nurses, Early Years educators deserve a seat at the table for pay talks. 

Now we have one. 

The Government has established the Joint Labour Committee (JLC) for Early Years. The JLC is where our union, SIPTU and employers can negotiate better pay and conditions. 

With greater investment, we can negotiate towards professional pay scales that recognise our qualifications and experience.

But first we need government to make the promised investment; this is the biggest barrier to professional pay.

#OneUnitedVoice

SIPTU has come together with Early Years organisations to demand a “New Deal for Early Years” in the upcoming budget.

Over the past weeks and months, we have united in our campaign to make the Early Years a priority in the upcoming budget. 

 By stand together we can make Early Years a priority for government in Budget 2022.

The 'New Deal for Early Years Campaign' coalition includes SIPTU, the Association of Childhood Professionals, National Childhood Network, PLÉ, National Community Childcare Forum, CRANN Support Services, Irish Congress of Trade Unions, OMEP Ireland, Further Education Teachers Network, Men In Childcare, the National Women’s Council and SPARK.

Find Out More About SIPTU

If you want to find out more about SIPTU, or need information and support, you can contact SIPTU's confidential helpline.

You can talk in confidence 1-to-1 with a SIPTU Organiser or arrange a group meeting for your service. 

If you are not yet a member, you can also join here

Big Start Campaign Team
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Budget 2022, a new deal for early years