Netherlands, Belgium and Ireland tackle rising childcare costs

In the Netherlands, the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) reported that in 2025 parents received, on average, 68 % of childcare expenses from the state, up from 65 % in 2024. About 719,000 families claimed the benefit, paying an average out‑of‑pocket amount of €3,340. Low‑income households contributed roughly €1,190 (11 % of costs) while the highest earners paid about €5,950, close to half the total bill. More than half a million children attended day‑care centres and a similar number used after‑school programmes, while the number of children cared for by registered childminders fell by around 10,000. The cabinet aims to make childcare almost free by 2029, covering 96 % of costs.

In Belgium, Minister Caroline Gennez (Vooruit) pledged 1,000 additional crèche places for 2026, but only 91 were created in the first quarter. The overall number of registered childminder slots has dropped from roughly 31,000 a decade ago to just over 19,000 today, reflecting a severe staffing shortage in the sector.

In Ireland, Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers announced that the 2027 budget will introduce a €200 per month cap on childcare fees, moving toward the government's goal of reducing early‑learning costs for low‑ and middle‑income families. The current cap stands at €734 per month, with recent reductions announced for full‑day places.