Lack of childcare places in of Louth may force nurse to leave job

​A nurse who works in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda may have to give up work as she is unable to find a childcare place in the whole of County Louth, the Dáil heard last week.

The woman’s plight was raised by Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú during a Sinn Féin debate on childcare.

Deputy Ó Murchú said there was no places available in the county for full-time childcare.

The Louth TD said a fit-for-purpose public childcare system was needed and the current system is not working for childminders or childcare providers. And it “certainly does not work for parents”.

He highlighted the nurse’s case who told him that her employment is at risk because of the lack of childcare places available.

Deputy Ó Murchú told the Dáil that for the past year, she has been continuously contacting crèches throughout County Louth in an effort to secure childcare for her child.

Despite her efforts, she has been repeatedly been told that waiting lists are extremely long and that no places are available.

The only childcare place that she has been able to secure is in County Armagh. As a result, she is paying over €270 per week for just three days of childcare.

According to Deputy Ó Murchú, the arrangement also requires a significant additional daily commute as she lives in north Louth and works in Drogheda.

The mother told Deputy Ó Murchú: ‘Unfortunately, the situation is becoming financially and practically unsustainable.

"I am now faced with the possibility of having to resign my job that I love simply because I cannot access affordable childcare closer to home.

‘I am deeply concerned that a lack of childcare provision could force experienced healthcare professionals out of the workforce.

"I am eager to continue serving patients in County Louth and contributing to mental health services, but I need support in finding a viable childcare solution’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: “I have spoken to the Louth childcare committee and I think it is straightforward: ‘I am sure you may be aware there are currently no childcare places in Louth for children full-time or part-time, especially within the age range from zero to three years’. That says it all”.