Thousands of childhood professionals are taking to the streets across the country this weekend to protest over a fundamental imbalance in their industry.

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROFESSIONALS are this Saturday taking to the streets in Cork, Dublin and Sligo in a bid to secure a wage that is commensurate with their important role of supporting children and families at the key stage in the young child’s development.

When childcare was first provided outside of the home it was generally by the woman who lived down the road and took in a few children to supplement the family income as she raised her own children. There were no requirements in terms of qualifications, regulations, inspections, observations, curriculum planning, continuous professional development, community involvement, etc. This woman kept the child safe and fed and her job was done.

The vista of early childhood and care is completely different in 2015. Today, the practitioner is a professional person whose role extends beyond their care work with the children.

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