Extending subsidies to childminders will cut childcare costs for families, says minister

A significant investment in the National Childcare Scheme is also being planned.

With parents paying an average of nearly €800 per month per child, making childcare more affordable for families is now a key priority for the Coalition.

Children's Minister Roderic O'Gorman says he is working to extend last month subsidies beyond creches so that parents who use childminders also see a significant reduction in costs.

Mr O'Gorman is seeking to cut childcare fees by half over the next two years, under measures being developed as part of September's budget.