Update 1.46pm: Childminding Ireland has issued a statement in response to today’s strike from the Impact union.

“To meet the changing needs of its members, Childminding Ireland has been undergoing a restructuring,” it stated.

“The new Childminding Ireland structure does not have the posts referred to by Impact.

“Currently, 41% of Childminding Ireland members have QQI level 5 or above in Childcare, and it is Childminding Ireland’s ambition to improve on that figure.

“The two membership posts required to have a Childcare qualification will be in direct professional contact with members, providing advice and support.

“Childminding Ireland has already confirmed support for training or refresher courses for staff as necessary, provided a 4 month consultation period and extended the application process.

“Regrettably three members of staff have declined to engage and have taken strike action.

“Childminding Ireland staff not involved in strike action will be continuing to support its members during the period of industrial action.”

Earlier:

Staff at Childminding Ireland are beginning an indefinite strike this morning after five workers were served redundancy notices.

The company has indicated that future staff will be required to have a childcare qualification.

Their union Impact said that workers will continue the action until management reverses its decision, and enters talks over a proposed restructuring plan.

Stella Griffin from Impact said that Childminding Ireland has said that staff can reapply for the jobs.

“Childminding Ireland – it’s a representative body and not a childcare provider, and it has indicated that in the future they’ll insist that administrative, communications and accounts staff have to have a childcare qualification,” she said.