Margaret Donohoe's case was raised in the Dail yesterday by Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly, who asked the Taoiseach if now is the "time to be chasing childminders for commercial rates" amidst a "crisis in accessibilioty and affordability in childcare".
The Taoiseach has requested further details from a local TD after a story highlighted by Kfm was raised in the Dail regarding a Newbridge childminder whose home may now be liable for commercial rates.
Speaking to Kfm News, Margaret Donohoe, who minds six children from her home, said Tailte Éireann contacted her to say her playroom would be assessed - something she believed childminders were exempt from.
Her case was raised in the Dail yesterday by Social Democrats Kildare North TD Aidan Farrelly, who asked the Taoiseach if now is the "time to be chasing childminders for commercial rates" amidst a "crisis in accessibility and affordability in childcare".
Taoiseach Micheal Martin said it sound like an issue for the local authority to deal with but requested additional information.
Ms Donohoe says she hasn’t been told the cost yet, and is “waiting and hoping” it’s a mistake - but fears even a small bill could rise year-on-year.
“It’s the unknown. I love my job, I don’t want to give it up. But I can’t take on another bill. Things are hard enough," she told Kfm News.
"I thought it was to do with property tax at first. I never imagined they were assessing me for commercial rates," Ms Donohue said.
She added: "I’ve spoken to two childminders who were due to register in the new year. They’re not going ahead now. They’re waiting to see what happens to me."
She said this could create a chilling effect among individuals who provide child minding services from their homes, at a time when many local parents are struggling to find a place a creche place for their children.
Childminding Ireland says this is the first case it has seen, but confirmed that a directive last year stated childminders may be liable unless operating on a not-for-profit basis.
The Department of Children says there is no general exemption for childminding services, and that rates decisions are made by Tailte Éireann and local authorities.
Kfm has contacted Tailte Eireann for comment.
Margaret Donohoe's story was also highlighted in the Irish Times this week.
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