Campaigners have urged the Government to a review a clause of the Social Welfare Bill that restricts the lone parent allowance for families whose youngest child is above seven years of age.
At a recent press conference, lone parents group Spark (Single Parents Acting for the Rights of our Kids) argued that “seven is too young” for single parents to be forced into the labour market when affordable childcare is difficult to find.
Meanwhile, Siptu community sector organiser Darragh O’Connor welcomed the statement from Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton that the lone parent allowance would only be restricted “if a credible commitment on childcare provision is given by the Government”.
He added: “The community sector has a key role to play in any solution to the issue of childcare provision. By expanding on the existing infrastructure and utilising community employment, the State could deliver a childcare service that is not only high quality and affordable for parents, but also cost effective for Government.”
O’Connor called for a joint approach between the relevant Government departments and stakeholders to address childcare needs.
“It is almost universally accepted that investment in quality childcare yields huge returns for communities. As part of an overall growth strategy, a comprehensive childcare system must be a priority,” he said.
