Gildernew launches South Armagh childcare consortium's report

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has launched South Armagh’s Childcare Consortium’s (SACC) report.

SACC commissioned the report to carry out research into childcare provision in the South Armagh area. The research will be used to inform future planning, funding and policy making in relation to childcare provision in the local area.

Speaking at the launch of the report, Minister Gildernew said: “As a working mother and rural dweller, I know first hand how important it is to have access to affordable and accessible, rural childcare.

“The findings in this report complement the findings of the Rural Childcare Stakeholder Group that I set up when I first came to office. A key recommendation from that group is the development of a rural childcare programme which I hope will be launched in the early summer and will have a positive impact on childcare provision of our rural areas.

“We all have a part to play in ensuring that rural families have the support to allow them to consider taking up work or training opportunities that may arise.”

Fiona McVerry, SACC Coordinator said: “During the past year SACC have established themselves as a support and advice network for parents and childcare providers. We have in this short period of time built a strong relationship with the community, and this is reflected by the increase in requests for advice and support, especially from parents who are faced with limited childcare options – we see these services as an important role for SACC now and in the future”.

“SACC is a community led project and although the compilation and production of the “Childcare – Who Cares?” research report is a highly valuable part of our work to date, we have also worked extremely hard in promoting and recognising the work of registered child minders in South Armagh. We have also offered information and support to potential and existing childcare providers in our local area.

“The research carried out has identified gaps in childcare provision in South Armagh. To counteract the gaps we look forward to working in partnership with Government and other key players, to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of rural women right across Northern Ireland.”

Notes to Editors:

1. A childcare programme is one of the priorities of the Rural Anti-Poverty and Social Inclusion Framework which is currently out to consultation.
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