A local childcare provider has warned that staffing problems in the sector are at a "crisis level".
Paula Donohoe, of Clever Clogs in Ballyconnell, says staff retention is a huge issue due to pay conditions and added that numerous appeals have been made to government.
A study conducted by SIPTU has found that 90 per cent of childcare workers say they struggle to make ends meet, despite many being educated to degree level.
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Meanwhile, 40 per cent of those in the sector are actively looking for jobs in other industries.
Speaking on The Wider View, Paula Donohoe said it's "heart-breaking" to see so many leaving the sector due to low pay:
