A survey by the Irish Independent found that creche fees for one child are more expensive than mortgage payments for most families.

The results showed the bill for having a child minded can be as high as €1,100 per month while the average mortgage repayment stands at €913 per month.

That is the average cost for parents in the key child-rearing years of 25-44.

The cost of childcare can rise to as much as €2,000 per month for two children regardless of whether you use a creche or a childminder.

And with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) now urging the government to begin means-testing child benefit the survey found that thousands of working parents face the prospect of quitting work altogether in an effort to save money on childcare.

Would childcare costs influence your decision to have a child or more children?

Or would you or your partner consider quitting your job in order to look after your child and avoid childcare fees?

Let us know your thoughts below…