Parents forced to book creche places before birth as Labour calls for intervention

Ivana Bacik calls for 'Donogh O'Malley' moment for pre-school education

Taoiseach Micheál Martin acknowledged that historically, Ireland has been 'slow' in supporting the early years sector.

Parents are being told to reserve childcare places long before their babies are even born due to severe shortages, the Dáil has heard.

Calling for a "Donogh O'Malley moment" for pre-school education and childcare, Labour leader Ivana Bacik highlighted the frustration of parents who cannot access early years places.