Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 December 2021
263. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his attention has been drawn to the closure of a facility (details supplied) due to fire safety concerns of the landlords despite the premises being inspected by Tusla, Pobal and independent fire experts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61109/21]
View answerBuildings that are intended for the purpose of Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare must meet all regulatory compliance requirements, including fire and planning requirements. Fire safety is, of course, of critical importance and services must take steps to address any immediate and significant risk to the health and safety of children due to fire. Compliance with these fire regulations is a matter for the local fire authority. Tusla also checks fire safety on inspection and looks for evidence of compliance with fire regulations at registration.
My Department allocated funding under the Annual Capital Programme 2021 to assist services complete any outstanding fire safety works required to complete re-registration with Tusla. A total of €5 million has been allocated across 643 services to carry out remedial works to ensure these services will be fully compliant with fire safety standards.
However, my Department is not directly involved in the day to day activities or decision making processes of individual service providers, whether they are for-profit private organisations or not-for-profit community organisations. Any dispute in relation to the cessation or extension of a lease is a matter between the building owner and the service owner.
Where early learning and care services close, parents can contact their local City or County Childcare Committee for advice on early learning and care options in their area. Details can be found on myccc.ie.
