Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
804. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the average waiting time for Garda vetting applications for new hires in childcare facilities in County Cork in each of the past three years; the steps being taken to reduce these waiting times; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33046/26]
View answerGarda vetting processing times are advised to this Department from the Garda National Vetting Bureau as a general guidance. Garda Vetting applications are also not sector-specific and cannot be broken down at county level. Processing times have been estimated as follows for a standard application.
• Average processing times for 2024 were 8-10 days.
• Average processing times were 8-10 days in first half of 2025, however, increased to 15 days during the second half of the year.
• Average processing times in 2026 currently stand at 15-20 days.
The Department recognises the challenges for Early Years providers due to the increased Garda vetting processing times. Garda vetting is a legal requirement for all people working directly with children and vulnerable adults, under the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts, 2012-2016.
The Department engage on an ongoing basis with the Garda National Vetting Bureau to discuss operational issues and to ensure the sector is kept up to date on any vetting changes affecting Early Years services. We will continue to liaise with the GNVB to support the sector.
