Irish creches to shut down over funding dispute, citing unmet promise to limit childcare to €200/month.

Irish creches are preparing to shut down in protest over inadequate government funding, with 151 centers withdrawing from the state’s childcare scheme. Operators say the current funding model is unsustainable and blame the government for failing to deliver on its pre-election promise to cap childcare at €200 per month per child. A survey of nearly 500 providers found 98% support collective action, warning that without reform, monthly fees could reach nearly €1,400 per child. Further discussions are planned as providers urge immediate intervention to prevent widespread closures.