Proposals from Fine Gael and the Green Party to develop a public Early Years education system are doomed to failure unless low pay for workers in the sector is adequately addressed, according to SIPTU Head of Strategic Organising and Campaigns, Darragh O’Connor.
He said: “Despite recent pay increases, the minimum rate of pay for a qualified Early Years Educator is just €13.65 per hour, €1.15 below the Living Wage of €14.80. This has led to a staffing crisis with services struggling to recruit and retain staff”.
According to the annual SIPTU Early Years Professionals Survey published in July, 30% of managers reported that problems recruiting and retaining staff could result in their service closing. The threat of room closures due to the staffing crisis was reported by 42% of managers.
O’Connor added: “The biggest factor driving the staffing crisis is low pay. Unless this is addressed in the upcoming budget any proposals to introduce public provision will be doomed.
“With over 30,000 children on waiting lists for a creche place, the case for building more creches is undeniable. However, bricks and mortar alone is not a solution, Educators need recognition, respect and decent pay.
SIPTU Sector Organiser, Diane Jackson said: “To solve the staffing crisis, we need the Government and employer representatives to step up. Firstly, the upcoming budget must deliver ring-fenced funding to improve pay. Secondly, we need employer groups to get back around the table and start the pay talks.”
She added: “So many dedicated Educators have been forced to leave their profession due to low pay. If the Government want to support quality Early Years services and access for families, they must make the investment necessary in the upcoming Budget”.