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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 24 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 6

Written Answers. - Child Care Act Implementation.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

21 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the provisions of the Child Care Act, 1990, which have been implemented so far and the provisions which have still to be implemented; if any timetable has been set for the implementation of the outstanding sections; when it is intended to make the regulations relating to the operation of creches; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Alan Shatter

Question:

113 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the general directions given by him to health boards in relation to the establishment of child care advisory committees pursuant to section 7 of the Child Care Act, 1991; when such directions were communicated to the health boards; if no such directions have yet been given, when they will be given; and when the aforesaid section will be brought into force.

Alan Shatter

Question:

114 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Health the sections of the Child Care Act, 1991, which have come into operation to date; if he will outline the orders which have, to date, been made by him pursuant to section 1 (2) of the Act; the sections which have not been brought into operation; and when it is intended that these remaining sections will be in force.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 21, 113 and 114 together.

The Child Care Act, 1991, was enacted on 10 July last. It is proposed to implement the legislation on a phased basis in accordance with the commitment contained in theProgramme for Economic and Social Progress. My Department are currently drawing up a timetable for implementation.
Regulations and rules of court are required to give full effect to many of the provisions of the legislation, including those relating to the supervision of creches and other pre-school services.
With regard to the regulations, an undertaking was given during the passage of the Bill through both Houses that there would be consultations with the relevant interest groups. I intend to honour that undertaking and to consult fully with the health boards and other organisations on whose services and members the regulations will have an impact.
As regards rules of court, the Department of Justice have been requested to bring the new legislation to the attention of the District Court Rules Committee with a view to having the necessary rules drafted as soon as possible.
General directions to the health boards in relation to the establishment of child care advisory committees and in relation to certain other measures requiring such directions will be given by me in due course as part of a structured programme for the implementation of the legislation.
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