IMPACT has joined with the Association of Childhood Professionals (ACP) to work together to achieve investment in the sector. The first step is coming together at regional level to explain the importance of trade union organisation in order to achieve our common goals.

IMPACT and the ACP are holding a series of 17 meetings around the country in February and March. These meetings are open to all early childhood care and education staff and providers. Both organisations plan to work together to achieve professional recognition with appropriate pay and other standards.

IMPACT’s deputy general secretary Kevin Callinan explained, “IMPACT has had a presence in the sector for a long time but it is clear that much closer cooperation between professional groups like ACP and the trade union will be required to achieve improvements for the people delivering the services.

“We would like to increase membership to make early childhood professionals become a very significant part of the union. In doing so, IMPACT can draw on its success in winning professional recognition and rates of pay for other groups and achieve the same for workers in early years.

“All staff in early years services, such as pre-schools, day nurseries and crèches should work together to ensure that their voices are heard. This is a sector that is growing fast. However, the valuable work that is carried out by its staff is not reflected in pay and other conditions. This is not the fault of employers. Change is needed involving more investment by the government,” said Kevin.

This week’s meetings include Kilkenny Monday 22nd February 7.00pm;  Carlow Tuesday 23rd February 7.30pm ; Cavan Wednesday 24th February 7.30pm. Here is a full list of meetings and venues.