Public Consultation on the Draft Regulations for Childminders - Have Your Say
The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is currently conducting a public consultation on the draft Regulations for Childminders.
The National Action Plan for Childminding 2021 – 2028 sets out a phased approach to the regulation and registration of childminders. Central to work under the National Action Plan has been the development of new regulations that are specific to childminders. The draft regulations set out proposed minimum standards for anyone who provides a childminding service.
These regulations will not apply to anyone who is only minding their relatives’ children e.g. grandparents, nor will they apply to people who are employees caring for children in the child’s own home. These regulations relate only to childminders who single-handedly look after other people’s children in the childminder’s primary family residence, i.e. their own home. Childminders themselves were involved in the drafting of the regulations. The regulations set out safe-guarding measures for children.
Currently the majority of childminders are legally prevented from registering with Tusla. Following the introduction of regulations, childminders will be able to register, and to avail of the benefits and supports offered to other early learning and childcare providers. It is envisaged that, once registered, they will be able to take part in the National Childcare Scheme, making subsidies available to parents.
DCEDIY want to hear from as many childminders, parents, representative organisations and other interested individuals/bodies as possible. You can make your views known by participating in the online survey or taking part in an in-person or online focus group. The deadline for response is Thursday 2 May 2024 and you can find more information on the regulations and details of how to participate in the consultation here.