Kildare families to benefit from ‘substantial reductions’ in childcare costs
The minimum hourly subsidy under the NCS for children under 15 is increasing by 53%
Some local families will benefit from the introduction of new subsidy rates under the National Childcare Scheme (NCS), which are set to substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs for early learning and childcare for tens of thousands of families across the country.
From 2 September, the minimum hourly subsidy under the NCS for children under 15 will increase by 53% – from €1.40 to €2.14. For families using Tusla-registered early learning and childcare, the subsidy increase represents total cost reductions of up to €96.30 weekly per child, or over €5,000 annually.
From 2 September, the hourly subsidy under NCS sponsor referral programme, which makes special provision for vulnerable children, will also increase.
“Making childcare more affordable is and will continue to be a key priority for Fianna Fáil in Government. I'm proud to see a record 175,389 children benefiting from the National Childcare Scheme this year—a remarkable increase of over 97,000 compared to 2022,” said local Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin.
“Starting this September, a fee cap will be introduced for new services joining Core Funding, expanding to all services by 2025. This will set a maximum fee level for childcare, ensuring greater affordability and certainty for parents.
“These new subsidy rates will make quality early learning and childcare more accessible for thousands of families. I encourage all eligible families to take advantage of these supports.”
