Childcare costs forcing mothers out of workforce

Ireland is suffering a “brain drain” as thousands of mothers leave the workforce every year due to the excessive costs associated with childcare, according to new research.

The study has suggested that more than 3,000 new mothers leave the workforce annually, costing Irish companies an estimated €68m in recruitment and training costs.

Entitled the ‘Baby Brain Drain’ study, it also suggests that 33,500 mothers plan to return to work on a full-time basis out of financial necessity, while 8,200 mothers returning to work are seeking a new job with more flexible hours.