The largest public service union Fórsa has demanded that the HSE should either pay for alternative childcare arrangements for essential healthcare workers, or deliver childcare directly to enable them to carry out their frontline duties.
The demand comes as the HSE outlined a range of flexible work patterns aimed at resolving childcare difficulties which arose when schools and creches were closed, and which have forced some essential workers to remain at home to care for their children.
The Government's roadmap for recovery has indicated that from 18th May, childcare may be delivered in the homes of healthcare workers, and the Department of Children and Youth Affairs is due to outline the details tomorrow.