New childcare scheme does not account for mortgage and rent payments

Fine Gael members are concerned a new childcare scheme does not take mortgage and rent payments into account.

Children’s Minister Katherine Zappone (Ind) announced a subsidised childcare package as part of Budget 2017. It is due to come into force from September.

Under the Single Affordable Childcare Scheme, parents will qualify for a targeted subsidy based on their net income.

Fine Gael TD Jim Daly, who chairs the Oireachtas committee on children, said rent and mortgage payments should be taken into account. His views were backed by Fine Gael senator Catherine Noone, who is also a member of the committee.

Mr Daly said: “Currently there is no mention of mortgage or rental payments when it comes to the means testing of the scheme. This is absolutely essential when it comes to the application process.

“Families are being pushed financially to keep a roof over their heads and provide for their children. This has to be taken into account when they apply for this scheme which will be of immense benefit to them.”

Mr Daly pointed out that mortgage and rental costs are taken into account when assessing people for medical cards and he did not see why the same could not be done for the childcare scheme. He said many family are “making sacrifices” to afford the cost of childcare.

Under the scheme, subsidies will be available for children aged from six months to 15 years in households earning up to €47,500 net income. The lowest earners will receive the most help and could be eligible for around €8,000 based on the maximum of 40 hours’ childcare a week.

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