SIPTU – The Early Years Union and the Federation of Early Childhood Providers have jointly called on early childhood care and education employees and employers to support pay proposals which emerged from negotiations at the Joint Labour Committee (JLC) for the sector.
SIPTU Sector Organiser, Diane Jackson, said: “The pay proposals were unanimously agreed at a meeting of the Early Years JLC on Thursday 20th June. The JLC brings together representatives of SIPTU-The Early Years Union representing employees, and FECP and Childhood Services Ireland, an IBEC affiliate, representing employers. As part of the process to establish legally binding minimum rates of pay, the JLC is inviting submissions from the public concerning the pay proposals.”
She added: “Low pay is driving a recruitment and retention crisis in Early Years which is adversely impacting staff, providers, parents and children. These pay proposals are another step forward in recognising and rewarding Early Years staff adequately.”
FECP Chairperson, Elaine Dunne, said: “These updated pay rates represent an important recognition of the skill, dedication, and professionalism that Early Years Educators bring to their work every day. However, to ensure the sustainability of the sector, particularly for small and medium-sized services, we now need the Government to commit to increased and sustained investment year on year. Only through continued support can we maintain quality, retain experienced staff and secure the future of early learning and care in Ireland.”
The proposed rates of pay start from €15 per hour for an Early Years Educator to €20.25 for a Graduate Early Years Manager. They represent an approximate 10% increase from the 2024 rates.
In Budget 2025, the Government ringfenced €45 million to support improved pay negotiated through the JLC. SIPTU is calling for further State investment to be ringfenced for pay in Budget 2026.