Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East, Albert Dolan, has welcomed a major pay increase for Early Years Educators and School-Age Childcare Practitioners which will benefit childcare staff and families across the county.
The new Employment Regulation Order (ERO) will come into effect on 13th October 2025 and will see minimum hourly pay rates rise by an average of 10% for thousands of childcare workers.
Under the changes, wages for staff will increase to between €15 and €20.25 per hour, depending on role and qualifications. Nationally, around 67% of workers in the sector (23,000 people) are set to benefit.
Deputy Dolan said the announcement is especially welcome for Galway East:
“This is fantastic news for early years and childcare staff right across Galway East. These are highly skilled professionals who do vital work in supporting children’s learning and development while giving parents the confidence and support they need.
For far too long, this sector has not been properly valued. This pay increase is a real step forward in recognising their importance and ensuring we can retain and attract staff locally.”
To ensure services can afford the higher wages, the Government has committed an extra €45 million in ring-fenced Core Funding, bringing the total to €390 million this year.
Deputy Dolan added:
“This funding will go directly towards staff pay, meaning workers see the benefit while services in towns and villages across Galway East remain sustainable for families.”
ENDS