Many parents cannot access childcare facilities in Lusk. In many cases, families are on waiting lists of up to 12 months or longer. More capacity is needed. Parents should not have to travel significant distances to find a creche or afterschool facility for their child. Childcare costs are a significant financial commitment for families. I’ve met parents all over Lusk that are paying significantly more in childcare costs than in other parts of the country. While recent investment in Core Funding (paid directly to childcare providers) and the increase in the National Childcare Scheme subsidy rate is welcome, fees remain far too high. From speaking with childcare providers in Fingal, it is clear there’s a recruitment and retention crisis in this sector. Many owners say the struggle to find staff has impacted on the quality of service they can provide. Recent surveys published show that childcare staff are actively looking to change careers, citing low pay (and having to work unpaid overtime). What I’ve done so far to help parents in Lusk: