Paul Kehoe
Question:350 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children if his Department has regulations or guidelines on the charges imposed by private pre-school child care; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29977/03]
Written Answers. - Child Care Services.
There are no regulations or guidelines on the charges imposed by pre-school child care providers. My Department's main role and responsibility in the area relates to the implementation of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996. The regulations give effect to the provisions of Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991 and provide for notification to, and inspection by, health boards of pre-school services. The purpose of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 is to build on the existing good standards in our pre-school services and gradually improve standards throughout the sector to secure the health, safety and welfare of pre-school children and to promote the development of children attending pre-school services.