Concerns have been raised by childcare providers as the majority of businesses say that they will not be able to remain open without Government support.
According to a survey by the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, almost 70% of services were not open, as of last Friday.
Only 22% are operating at full capacity, it found. The survey also found 69% of providers are running at a loss. The federation represents over 1,700 childcare providers across the country.
Over 800 operators took part in the survey last week. The viability of many providers is a serious worry, according to those in the industry.