Around 350,000 workers in Northern Ireland have dependent children. Of these, around 70% have ‘intensive childcare requirements’.* The Executive has indicated that childcare is a critical priority as we exit lockdown and has allocated significant funds to support the reopening and recovery of the sector, alongside the publication of a Childcare Recovery Plan.

As Northern Ireland emerges from lockdown and workers return to their jobs, it is critical that the spotlight remains on childcare provision, and its vital role as a necessary component of a functioning society and key to our economic recovery.

This webinar will examine provision of childcare in Northern Ireland; the rights issues involved; the pre-existing difficulties in accessing appropriate, affordable, flexible childcare; and the specific pressures added by the pandemic.

Speakers include:

• Aoife Hamilton (Employers For Childcare)
• Louise Coyle (Northern Ireland Rural Women’s Network)
• Louise Neeson (Parent)

*Nevin Economic Research Institute