Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan Brendan Smith says the government need to work immediately on a new childcare plan for frontline workers after proposed plans on a new scheme fell apart yesterday evening.

Deputy Smith said, “Frontline workers have gone above and beyond for their country over the last nine weeks. During this time, they have made huge sacrifices in their own lives to help others. However, many have had to make huge personal sacrifices as they cannot source childcare services.  

“Yesterday evening the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs announced the proposed new scheme offering childcare for frontline workers would not go ahead due to a lack of providers signing up and other factors.

“It is vital any new scheme is developed with consultation from all stakeholders. Childcare providers, frontline workers and their unions, insurance providers, government and others need to come together and urgently create a scheme that is workable for all involved.  

“We are nine weeks into this unprecedented public health emergency. A scheme should have been established far earlier than this. It is the least our frontline workers deserve,” concluded Deputy Smith.