08/10/2026
08.10.2026
Communication to Providers on Proposed Strike Action in Schools
✨Dear Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare provider,
📣Industrial Action in Schools
The Department is aware of current industrial action and proposed strike action by teaching unions, Fórsa and SIPTU taking place in primary and post primary schools on 14 and 21 October, with the possibility of further strike action.
It is expected that some schools will close.
We recognise this may be a challenging time for children, educators, families and providers.
Services Operating on School Premises
Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare providers who are licensed by local school boards of management to operate on a school premises should engage with the board of management to confirm local arrangements for continued access to the school and their service's accommodation, services and utilities across the service's operating hours.
NCS and ECCE Arrangements Where a Service Closes
If, having explored all reasonable options, a service is required to close, it should amend any NCS claim to ensure a subsidy is not claimed when it is not operating. A service can also consider applying for a paid NCS closure day, in accordance with the NCS Closure Day Rules.
For ECCE services, providers should consider opening on an additional day to make up for the closed day.
Further Communications and Parent Information
The Department of Children, Disability and Equality continues to remain in contact with the Department of Education and Youth on this matter.
Providers should keep parents informed of service arrangements as usual.
Should any specific guidance become necessary, it will be communicated through the usual channels.
Kind regards,
Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare Division
