'I started looking when I was three months' pregnant and was told there's a two-year waiting list' - counting the true cost of childcare
Briefly

Parents in Ireland are increasingly struggling with a childcare crisis characterized by rising costs and limited availability. Many are forced to take extended leave from work due to the unavailability of childcare after maternity leave. Some parents, like Aoife Whelan, have to register for childcare spots early in their pregnancies, yet face uncertainty about whether they will secure a place. This situation creates significant pressure on parents, complicating their efforts to juggle work commitments and family needs.
Working parents face a severe childcare crisis, with limited availability forcing some to take extensive leaves from work or face uncertainty regarding future childcare options.
Many parents experience significant stress due to the inability to secure childcare in advance, which complicates their ability to balance work and family responsibilities.
Read at Independent
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