Group claims €2.75m announced for childcare sector not 'new' investment

Early Childhood Ireland is calling on the Government to ringfence funding for training, mentoring and inspections in the childcare sector.

Yesterday, the Children's Minister Frances Fitzgerald announced funding of €2.75m to improve childcare facilities across Ireland, but the group said the allocation is not "new" investment.

Ms Fitzgerald also said she is determined to introduce stronger punishments for creches in breach of childcare rules.

Teresa Heeney, Chief Operations Officer with Early Childhood Ireland, said there is also no time frame in place.