I propose to take Questions Nos. 212 and 213 together.
Part VII of the Child Care Act, 1991, provides for the introduction of a system for the inspection and supervision by health boards of pre-school services for children. I intend to bring the relevant provisions of the Act into operation by the end of this year. This will involve the introduction of regulations to secure the health, safety and welfare of children attending pre-school services and to promote their development. A feature of the new legislation will be an obligation on pre-school providers to notify their local health board of their service. The preparation of the regulations is at an advanced stage.
I understand from my colleague the Minister for Enterprise and Employment that there are no minimum rates of pay for those employed in creches and nurseries.