Planning for the Early Years - June 2010

This short briefing note explains why Ireland needs a focused and ambitious plan for the long-term development of early childhood education and care: to drive positive change for young children, to build the foundations of a strong economy, and to reach international standards.

UNICEF has identified a 'national plan for the organisation and financing of early childhood services' as one of its 10 international 'minimum standards'. In the absence of such a national plan, there is little hope of Ireland advancing far up UNICEF's international 'league table' for early years services and supports.

Start Strong's Children 2020 campaign is calling for the Irish Government to develop a national, 10-year plan for early childhood in Ireland.