New childcare fee cap will not benefit most parents

Children's minister Norma Foley announcing the new maximum fee cap for early learning and childcare services on Thursday. The highest average fee being paid in Ireland is in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown at €258 — well below the €295 fee cap. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins

A new fee cap for early learning and childcare will not have a significant impact for the majority of parents, new figures show.

Minister for children Norma Foley announced a maximum fee cap for new and existing services taking part in core funding. Under this, the highest possible fees will be no more than €295 per week for a full day care place that would come in at 40-50 hours a week.