Three thousand new mothers leave the work force every year because of the high cost of childcare.
According to new study, the Citrix Baby Brain Drain, it also finds the loss of skills is costing businesses over 68 million euro a year.
The cost is being attributed to firms being forced to recruit and train new staff.
The study also suggests that 33,500 mothers plan to return to work on a full time basis because they need the money.
The research also found that approximately 8 thousand 200 mothers returning to work will be looking for a new job with more flexible hours.
Employers group Ibec said the cost of childcare and access for mothers to the workforce was a very live issue and demanded government consideration.
Scottish police find remains believed to be those of missing Irish woman Karen Buckley, more here.
