A march on the issue will take place in Dublin later today.
More than 1,700 creches around the country will close today in protest at high fees and low pay in the childcare sector.
A march on the issue involving providers, educators and parents is also expected to attract thousands in Dublin City Centre later.
It's being organised by the Early Years Alliance, who are demanding solutions to what they call a 'worsening crisis' in the childcare sector.
Marian Quinn from the Association of Childhood Professionals says the situation's chronic:
