Local childminders' concerns on potential planning guidance changes highlighted

Cllr Duffy said: “Childminders have raised concerns that planning guidance could reduce the number of children they can care for by 50%. 

"This could put many childminders out of business as continuing would be financially unviable. This would have a serious impact on families who heavily rely on childminders," she added.

"We have raised this directly with the Council pressing them to provide clear assurance that these changes will not happen. Sinn Féin recognises that childminders play a vital role in providing high-quality childcare despite the ongoing challenges they face.

"Sinn Féin Finance Minister John O'Dowd has also pressed the British Government on the withdrawal of the 10% wear and tear allowance which is a huge blow for childminders.

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“We have also pressed the British Government to amend the minimum income floor as childminders whose earnings often fall below the threshold face disproportionate penalties.

“We need to see real action from the DUP Education Minister to put money back in the pockets of workers and families by making childcare more affordable while supporting childminders who are struggling with the rising cost of living," said Cllr Duffy.