McNulty: Childcare costs must remain political priority

The Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) is a Department of Education initiative designed to reduce the childcare costs of eligible working parents by 15% for all qualifying children. The overarching aim of this scheme is to help working parents with the affordability of childcare costs.

Mr. McNulty said that this scheme is only part of a package of support needed to help working families.

SDLP Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty said: “For years, parents have been speaking out about the snowballing childcare costs that have put pressure on family finances and pushed many out of the workforce. The SDLP has tirelessly campaigned on this issue and in January last year launched our proposals for immediate intervention in order to support parents and providers.

“It is very welcome that the portal for the NI Childcare Subsidy scheme has been launched and it is important that all parents who are eligible for the scheme make sure to register before 20 August to receive this support.

“Of course, this is only part of a package of support measures and the scheme is not a complete solution to the longer-term challenges facing early education. That work starts with the Executive publishing a bold, ambitious, and comprehensive Early Education and Childcare Strategy that can guarantee affordability for parents, sustainability for providers and the best start in life for all children.

“The SDLP will continue to infuse new ideas into this area of policy and to hold the Executive accountable in bringing down costs for families.”