Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 September 2021
419. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will consider making it mandatory for all crèches to undergo inspection from Tusla upon their opening and to have regular inspections taking place once operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44438/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraTusla is the independent statutory regulator of early years services in Ireland. The Tusla Early Years Inspectorate promotes and monitors the safety and quality of care and support of children in Tusla registered early years services in accordance with the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016.
New applicants who wish to register a new early learning and care service must apply to Tusla. The suitability of the applicant and the suitability of the premises for the education and care of children is assessed through a fit-for-purpose process. This process includes the inspection and assessment of the premises to ensure compliance with specific regulations prior to the new service being approved for registration.
Early learning and care services are also subject to regular and routine inspections and Tusla aims to inspect all early learning and care services on their register at least once every three years. Inspection reports are available on the Tusla website and can be accessed here: www.tusla.ie/services/preschool-services/creche-inspection-reports/.
