EarlyYears Professionals Covid-19 Back to Work Survey

Even before the Covid-19 pandemic Ireland’s Early Childhood Education and Care (childcare) sector was under severe pressure. There was a crisis of low pay. Figures released by POBAL for 2018/19 showed that the average hourly rate of pay for Early Years Educators is just €11.44 per hour, over 60% of whom earn below the Living Wage of €12.30 per hour. Early Years managers earn on average just €15.44 per hour.

SIPTU’s own research has shown that 84% of Early Years professionals are unable to cope with an unexpected expense like replacing a washing machine. The sector is 98% female and one of the lowest paid in the country. Unsurprisingly, this has resulted in a staffing crisis. According to POBAL, the average staff turnover throughout the sector is 23% which increases to 40%, on average, in full day care services. This level of turnover is directly undermining the quality of service for children.

Finally, there is a crisis of affordability. Parents in Ireland pay the highest childcare fees in the EU4. POBAL also showed that parents pay on average €184.36 per week for a single full day care place. This is nearly three times the cost in other EU countries.

Between 9th July and 13th July 2020 over 1,000 Early Years professionals were surveyed by SIPTU in relation to key employment issues such as income, future hours of work and intention to stay in the sector.