Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
552. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he is aware of delays to the opening of a creche (details supplied); when the Health Information and Quality Authority and Tusla will conduct final inspections to allow the creche to open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10115/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTusla is the independent statutory regulator for the sector and is wholly responsible for the registration of all early learning and care and school age childcare services. As this is a matter for the regulator, I cannot intervene in specific cases.
It is a legal requirement under the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016 for those proposing to open an early years service to submit an application for registration with Tusla at least three months before they intend to commence operation. This is to allow for sufficient time for the processing and approval of such applications in line with the relevant statutory requirements. The requirements and timelines for the processing of applications are clearly communicated to the sector by the Inspectorate.
It is the responsibility of the providers of early years services to ensure that the premises is ready for a Fit for Purpose inspection. In order for Tusla to assess whether the premises is safe and suitable for children, the prospective premises - including the indoor play area - must be furnished, stocked and ready for occupation by adults and children. This must include the provision of thermostatically controlled hot water and the rooms appropriately heated and ready for occupation. Registration of early years services can be granted only where Tusla is satisfied that the premises, operation and location of the service pose no unmanaged risk to children.
Tusla has informed my Department that they process applications as quickly as possible once the completed registration documentation is submitted to them and that all registrations are completed within the statutory timelines and, in many cases, much sooner. In the interests of a fair and transparent process, Tusla will only review applications in the order of receipt.
