Childcare tops list of issues causing families to feel marginalised, study reveals

CHILDCARE is the biggest issue in areas where people feel disadvantaged, vulnerable and marginalised, a study reveals.

The top 10 list of major concerns has put education at number two, followed by the increase in drug use among young people.

The evaluation survey of almost 90 family resource centres throughout the country put amenities in the number four slot with equality, employment, disability, mental health, physical health and transport infrastructure making up the list.

The evaluation, conducted through the centres by the Family Support Agency, will further inform both the Government and the opposition in the run-up to the general election.

The findings were unveiled by Social Welfare Minister Seamus Brennan, who said that modern Ireland was now witnessing the emergence of a whole range of new stresses and pressures on people.

The study would further inform the Government in identifying the areas that required more targeted resources, supports, services and entitlements as part of an ongoing multi-billion package of measures spread across a number of departments and agencies, the minister added.

The study found that in many areas of the country, accessible and affordable childcare facilities were inadequate to meet increasing demands.

The minister announced details of the evaluation when he was in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim, to officially open a family life centre.

The centre has been established on a voluntary basis to support and enrich family life in its diverse forms.