Children’s Department has ‘poor’ relationships with sector workers, says Westmeath childcare manager

The industry is struggling to find suitably qualified personnel.

A Westmeath nursery worker has accused the Department of Children’s Affairs of failing to work well with the sector.

The industry is grappling with a number of challenges, including finding qualified staff and a fee freeze for services seeking basic funding.

Managing Director of Grovelands Childcare in Mullingar, Regina Bushell, says the sector is facing new demands and even more stress: