Childcare providers close their doors to protest over 'funding shortfall' 

Protesters from the Federation of Early Childhood Providers over a lack of funding at Leinster House, Dublin. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

Hundreds of childcare providers have closed their doors across the country to stage a protest outside Leinster House in response to what they claim is lack of State support allocated to them in the budget.

Elaine Dunne, chairperson FECP, with other protesters.

Photo: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

The protest, organised by the Federation of Early Childhood Providers (FECP), is to highlight the fact the new core funding proposals are threatening to close hundreds of local services, say providers.