Minister for children Katherine Zappone has announced that essential healthcare workers will receive 45 hours of child care per week from the government.
The Minister confirmed in front of the Dáil that the provision will come into effect from May 18 in 5,000 homes of healthcare workers.
Minister Zappone explained that while the majority of the cost would be covered by the Department for Children, parents who avail of the scheme will need to contribute €90 per week.
Registered childcare services will be invited to participate and it's recommended that those volunteering are paid €15 per hour for the service.
The government will cover PRSI, leave accrual and administrative overheads to providers in a scheme that is set to cost the State €4.7 million per week.
Minister Zappone expressed her hope that further investment would be provided to the sector as it reopens.
The scheme is subject to change and will be revisited in four week's time.
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