Limerick créche ups its pay rates to reflect 'living wage'

A LIMERICK city crèche has increased its minimum hourly pay rates to reflect the new ‘Living Wage’ rate.

The Family Tree Crèche was established in 2005 by Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership (LEDP) in response to the lack of childcare facilities on Limerick’s Southside, a barrier to allowing parents gain employment at that time.

It is just one of the LEDP projects which contributes to social advancement in Limerick. From this month, it says it will pay a minimum market-leading rate of €12.90 an hour, matching the Living Wage Technical Group’s recommended wage rate. 

“The commitment and enthusiasm of our colleagues has driven exceptional service standards for children in our care over many years, particularly during the last 18 months when their efforts have been nothing short of heroic," commented Niall O’Callaghan, Chief Executive, LEDP.

First students attend University of Limerick City Centre Campus

The Crèche caters for over 40 children, aged from three months to 5 years, on a full-time, part-time, sessional, summer and after-school basis in a custom designed building

Manager Jean Cleary added: "The Family Tree Crèche has always believed that our colleagues should be fully rewarded for their amazing work. Our ethos is to continue to pay the living wage at a minimum, regardless of role or qualification level”.

A living wage is intended to establish an hourly rate that should provide employees with sufficient income to achieve an agreed acceptable minimum standard of living.

It is not connected to the national minimum wage which is currently €10.50 per hour.