Early childhood care 'must have more investment'

The Government is being asked to allocate more to early childhood care and education.

Ireland spends around 0.2% of GDP on the sector, compared to an OECD average of 0.7%.

More than 1,000 early childhood workers and carers are gathering outside the Dáil later, demanding increased investment and a government-backed payscale.

Chair of the Association of Childhood Professionals Marian Quinn said: "With the amount required in terms of increased qualifications and regulations - (which are) all good things - it's becoming more and more unsustainable to provide high-quality care and education because there's no investment following (the new requirements).

"(Childcare workers) are struggling to make a wage themselves."