SDLP Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin
Progress on a childcare strategy was explicitly referenced in the report as an example of one of the areas where progress could be lost due to the lack of a functioning Executive.
In a recent survey of parents in Derry, 96% of respondents who use professional childcare said that childcare was very or quite difficult to afford.
Said the Foyle MLA: “This report published today highlights that the ongoing stalemate at Stormont risks the opportunity to make progress on previous commitments being lost, including the delivery of a Childcare Strategy.
“It’s clear to see that while the DUP continue to maintain their selfish boycott of the institutions, the casualties are families and individuals across the North, including the thousands struggling to afford childcare.
“For many, the costs of these services are becoming more difficult on a daily basis and it has a direct impact on the ability of both parents to go to work and pursue their chosen career.
“Parents are at their wit’s end and many simply don’t know how they are going to make ends meet while trying to scrape together enough for these extortionate costs.
“Similarly, many childcare providers are barely keeping their businesses afloat as they face a very difficult winter ahead.
“It’s long past time for the DUP to realise that the price of their boycott is not worth paying.
“They must swallow their pride, go back into government and get back to work.”
