Katherine Zappone stands firm on cheaper childcare for low-income families

A subsidised childcare package for low-income families was signed off by ministers Paschal Donohoe and Katherine Zappone last night.

Ms Zappone was said to be “extremely happy” with the package, which is set to benefit families with a net income of up to €47,000.

She had pressed for subsidised childcare to be prioritised for lower-income families, while Fine Gael TDs had sought to include “squeezed” middle-income families on up to €55,000.