Frances Byrne

Frances Byrne, Director of Policy at Early Childhood Ireland, discusses the pressing issues in Ireland's childcare infrastructure. She highlights the emotional toll of last-minute service closures due to staff shortages and emphasizes decades of underinvestment in early years care. Byrne compares Ireland's rigid staffing model with more flexible international systems, suggesting that better pay and recognition for early years staff could improve retention. She also notes that while some community centers can adapt to shortages, most lack the necessary flexibility.