Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:423. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality for an update in relation to a Naíonra (details supplied). [33765/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 7 May 2026
Ceisteanna (423)
Freagraí scríofa
In line with the requirements of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations, 2016, the Child Care Act, 1991 (Early Year Services) (Registration of School Age Services) Regulations 2018 and the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) (Childminding Services) Regulations 2024, those wishing to operate a preschool, school age or child minding early years service are required to register with Tusla. Each year a number of early years services also decide to close of their own volition. Where these services close, they are also required, in line with these statutory provisions to notify Tusla of their planned closure.
Timelines in relation to reopening of the services are an operational issue for Tusla Early Years Inspectorate.
In this case, a registration application is being processed by Tusla however a number of key supporting documents required to progress this application remain outstanding. Tusla has been liaising directly with the applicant in this matter, however it is not possible to progress this application in the absence of an application that accords with statutory requirements. Following receipt of these documents from the applicant, Tusla will of course endeavour to complete this application as quickly as possible to facilitate opening of the service at the earliest possible juncture.
Local City/County Childcare are available to support services contact information can be found here https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/city-and-county-childcare-committees/
I do not want any Provider to be faced with financial sustainability issues in their delivery of early learning and childcare services. To support services, there are wider financial supports available from the Department. Where a service is experiencing financial difficulty or has viability concerns, these can be accessed while remaining within Core Funding.
This support can take the form of assisting services with interpreting analysis of staff ratios and cash flow, financial support, as well as more specialised advice and support appropriate to individual circumstances.
Any service having trouble and who would like support should contact their CCC to access case management supports. Contact details for all City and County Childcare Committees are available on the gov.ie website.