Mayo report reveals investment needed for Early Years services

According to Pobal, 55 percent of Early Years and School Age Care settings in Mayo reported staff vacancies over the past 12 months. Of those, 47 percent of those who left their jobs left the sector entirely, while 10 percent emigrated. 

Early Childhood Ireland is urging the government to invest in the sector in Budget 2026. The appeal comes as the Dáil reopens and students return to their studies, at a time when staffing challenges continue to impact children’s access to places in Mayo.

Director of Policy at Early Childhood Ireland, Frances Byrne, says: “Early Years educators play a critical role in young children’s development, yet their pay and conditions tell a completely different story. Without significant investment in Budget 2026, talented educators will continue to leave in high numbers and services in Mayo will struggle to fill the vacancies, which will ultimately impact children’s experiences and their outcomes.”

In their Budget 2026 submission, Early Childhood Ireland is calling on the government for pay parity to graduate primary school teachers, who are qualified at the same level. 

According to Early Childhood Ireland, low pay and poor conditions are one of the main factors pushing educators and graduates to leave the sector.

“When a significant number of those leaving their roles choose to walk away from the sector entirely or emigrate, it’s a clear warning sign and reflects a system that isn’t valuing its educators,” Ms Byrne said.

“Students across the country are set to start Early Years degrees this month, and we can only hope that they will graduate into a better system where their pay and conditions reflect their instrumental role in young children’s lives,” she continued.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) states that good working conditions, fair pay, and adequate training for Early Years and School Age Care staff are essential in guaranteeing high-quality care and education for young children.

According to Ms Byrne: “Early Years education and care isn’t about babysitting. It is the first step in a child’s educational journey before they transition to primary school. Our educators lay the foundation for lifelong learning, which is recognised by the government, so it is only fair that their pay and conditions reflect that.”

READ NEXT: Iarnród Éireann installs advanced train detection warning system on Mayo route