Childcare costs to be reduced in Budget 2016

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has pledged to cut childcare costs in this year’s Budget. Speaking at Dublin Castle he said: “We will shortly publish a plan to expand early childhood education and reduce childcare costs, with the first steps to be taken in the coming Budget.

Childcare costs are pledged to be cut in Irish Budget 2016

Tanaiste Joan Burton also pledged that the Government will continue to increase child benefits. It is hoped that both measures will open up the labour market for more people.

The ‘Future Investment in Childcare in Ireland’ report, which was published this week, acknowledges the need to reform and invest in early childhood care and education services.

We’d welcome more affordable childcare options. So many parents simply can’t afford to work as their wages wouldn’t even begin to cover the crippling childcare fees. Also, if more children are attending childcare facilities, more jobs will be created in this area. Let’s hope the measures outlined this October make a difference.

The childcare announcement follows confirmation earlier this month that the Universal Social Charge will be reduced in Budget 2016. We’ll continue to bring you news of Budget 2016 as we get it.

The upcoming budget changes gives us the perfect opportunity to take a fresh look at our own taxes. See if you're due a refund by using our quick tax calculator.

You can see the Irish Budget 2016 changes here.