Early Childhood Ireland urges pay parity with primary school teachers

Early Childhood Ireland is calling on the government to set a definitive date for aligning Early Years and School Age Care graduates' pay with public sector conditions, as part of its Budget 2026 submission. Despite equivalent qualifications to primary teachers, many early childhood educators face lower pay, limited benefits, and job insecurity.

With staff turnover in some Dublin areas reaching nearly 50%, the organisation warns that without urgent reform, the sector will continue losing skilled professionals. While recent proposals to raise base pay to €15/hour are welcomed, campaigners stress that full parity is essential for workforce stability and long-term quality in early education.

Read the full story on the sector’s growing push for equality and recognition.