Representative groups are appealing for the childcare sector to be a higher priority.
More outbreaks of covid in childcare settings are likely, if the government doesn't provide more support.
That's according to the Federation of Early Childhood Providers.
12 of the 64 children who attend the a creche in Tullamore have tested positive for the virus, along with eight staff members - with further test results due back this evening.
FECP says while the HSE is happy all covid measures were adhered to, the facility is to stay closed until at least Friday.
Chairperson of the group, Elaine Dunne says the sector is too vulnerable to the transmission of covid:
Offaly Councillor Seeks More Roads Funding In North Of County
Revenue Seize Contraband Worth Over €153k
Plans Lodged For New 24-Hour Automated Car Wash in Laois
Westmeath School Joins Expanded Online Admissions System
Offaly Soccer Club Seeks Green Light For Major Facilities Expansion
Laois Senator Warns Midlands STEM Progress At Risk Without New Funding
Offaly ICSA Sheep Chair Hits Out At Factories Over Lamb Prices
Calls For New Affordable Housing Strategy In Offaly
"Every Parent's Worst Nightmare" - Three Westmeath People Die In Malaga Crash
Offaly Community Group Points Finger At Renewable Energy Operators Over Road Damage
Defence Forces To Carry Out Training Exercise In Offaly
Gardai Ask Public For Help In Locating Missing Laois Teenager
Midlands School Raises Over €20k To Support Education In Uganda
Hauliers Call For Incremental End To Fuel Price Supports
Two Laois Designers Selected For National Design & Craft Gallery Exhibition
Ireland Prepares For EU Presidency With Increased Security
Fatal Westmeath Helicopter Crash Caused By Failed Training Manoeuvre
Laois Gardaí Thanking Public After Finding Missing Woman
Missing Laois Teenager Found Safe And Well
Man In His 90s Dies In Laois Crash