NEWS: Tax breaks could make childcare more affordable for working parents

Working parents could finally be in for some financial relief, thanks to a new government plan due to go before the Cabinet tomorrow. The plan, which would be rolled out over several years, includes tax breaks and subsidies that would help make childcare more affordable. According to reports, Minister James Reilly is assembling a seven-department committee to address the issue before the summer. A range of free or subsidised after-school programmes will also be discussed, along with the promise of a second free pre-school year. Ireland is currently the most expensive country in the world for childcare, with parents of two children spending up to 40% of their income on creche fees.