SIPTU has called for direct State investment in the childcare sector to fund a 10% increase in Employment Regulation Order (ERO) minimum rates and the introduction of higher pay scales.
As part of its pre-budget submission, the union said the rise would properly recognise the experience and qualifications of early years’ educators.
SIPTU said the measure would cost €130 million.
“The early years sector is at a crossroads,” said SIPTU Sector Organiser, Diane Jackson.
“Unprecedented levels of public funding are flowing into the sector, yet this investment is not translating into decent pay and conditions for the highly qualified, predominantly female workforce.”
“This failure risks undermining the entire national Early Years infrastructure. Budget 2026 must be the budget that finally links State funding to fair pay for workers,” Ms Jackson said.
SIPTU has also called for the full publication of financial reviews of service providers to show where public money is being spent.
In June, pay increases of around 10% for the early years sector were put forward by the Joint Labour Committee, which is made up of employer and worker representatives.
It has the responsibility for setting minimum pay rates for over 35,000 staff in the early years and childcare sector.
At the time of the deal, Minister for Children Norma Foley welcomed the proposals.
