Core funds in danger if ringfenced €45m doesn't go directly to childcare staff, minister warns

Norma Foley said the commitment was made to ensure that the 37,000 staff caring for the country's children are being paid fairly and to support recruitment and retention in the sector. File photo: Niall Carson/PA

The core funding scheme could be in doubt if €45m ringfenced to improve pay for childcare workers does not go directly to them, the children's minister has warned.

Norma Foley said the commitment was made to ensure that the 37,000 staff caring for the country's children are being paid fairly and to support recruitment and retention in the sector.