There has been a 10% rise in the number of Galway children benefiting from the National Childcare Scheme but the early years childcare industry is still struggling locally.
The National Childcare Scheme provides subsidies which aim to reduce the cost of early learning and childcare for families.
The rise of almost two thousand Galway children benefitting from the scheme is slightly below the average national increase of 12 percent
Junior Minister and Galway East TD Sean Canney says these supports make a real difference for parents
However, it comes as The Federation of Early Childhood Providers has revealed that almost 1,000 early years childcare services have closed their doors over the last six years.
Speaking to Galway Talks, its Chairperson Elaine Dunne, says the industry itself is struggling and action needs to be taken
