Irish Government propose solution to high childcare costs

A government proposal, which would require the cooperation of principals, teachers and parent groups, may see the extended opening hours of Irish primary schools.

In a bid to address the issue of high childcare costs, the proposed move would allow children to remain under supervision in school for up to two hours after the final bell. 

This proposal, which would go into operation on national level should it be implemented, will play a role in pay talks with teacher unions later this year.

Commenting on the proposed programme, a senior source said: "It's hitting the primary school cohort of parents. It's making it easier for them to work more and cutting childcare costs."

Highlighting the advantages of the proposed solution to the highly-publicised issue of childcare costs, the source goes on to say: "The prize would be to get this in on a concerted basis right across the country. It's low-cost and you're not talking about building new facilities."

The proposal has thus far been discussed by ministers and officials from numerous departments.