Letters to the Editor: Early childhood and care system must be universal, inclusive, and affordable

A public system of early childhood education and care is essential to address fundamental issues within the sector. File picture: iStock

We are members of the Together for Public Alliance, a campaign group of more than 40 organisations brought together by the National Women’s Council, representing women’s and men’s groups, children’s rights groups, academics, trade unions, equality and human rights groups, and anti-poverty groups, all united in our call for a public system of early childhood education and care in Ireland.

As negotiations to form a new government come towards their conclusion, we are once again reiterating our call for a commitment to introduce a public system of early childhood education and care (ECEC), including the rollout of publicly delivered services alongside community and private provision, to be included within the new programme for government.