Staff say the sector hasn't received enough investment
A midlands childcare provider is accusing the State of making "token promises" for the sector.
Director of Kilminchy School House in Portlaoise, Sonya Duggan, says the work put in by staff and providers isn't being recognised by the State.
She's been speaking after claiming Business All-Star Laois Entrepreneur of the Year award from the All-Ireland Business Foundation.
Ms. Duggan says the sector is suffering from under-investment: