Media Statement on the broadcast of a RTE programme relating to standards of childcare

Tusla - Child and Family Agency has been made aware that RTE plans to broadcast a programme relating to standards of childcare in a chain of Dublin creches. Tusla has not yet been provided with any footage, and has contacted RTE to request this and to seek any further information that will assist us to take the necessary action. 

Tusla Early Years Inspectorate is the independent statutory regulator of early years services in Ireland and its role is to promote and monitor the safety and quality of care and support of the child in early years provision in accordance with the regulations. The Inspectorate implements its role by assessing applications for registration and by inspecting registered services and where necessary use our enforcement powers. In 2018 Tusla carried out 2513 inspections across Ireland. Inspection reports are publicly available and can be found on the Tusla website.

Tusla advises parents who have concerns about a crèche or early years service to bring those concerns directly to the provider, who has a responsibility and mandate to respond and investigate any complaints that are received. The provider should provide you with assurances about the safety, care and welfare of your child. If you are not satisfied with the providers response, you can contact Tusla’s Early Years Inspectorate by emailing your concern to early.yearsui@tusla.ie. This information will inform our inspection work or may trigger an immediate inspection. 

If you have an concern about the immediate safety of a child, you can contact your local Tusla duty social work department. You can also contact the Gardai.