Registration of Childcare Services to Tusla
The Child Care Act 1991 provides for the regulation and inspection of childcare services which cater for pre-school children in Ireland. Under Irish law a ‘Pre-school Child is a child who is under six years of age and who is not attending a national school or a school providing education similar to a national school.’
- Pre-school Childcare Services Statutorily required to Register with Tusla
- Pre-school, Playgroup, Naionra
- Day Nurseries, Crèches
- Childminders
- Or similar type service caring for pre-school children
Please note that the current system of notification is being replaced by a Registration System.
Registration with Tusla
Under Section 92, Child and Family Agency Act 2013, the new Child and Family Agency is required to provide for a system of registration of Early Years Services. This means that all new Early Years’ Service Providers, including Childminder’s will have to register with the Agency and undergo an inspection before commencing operation. Existing Services and Childminders will be deemed registered on an interim basis but will be required to apply for registration and undergo an inspection in due course.
Please refer to the Tusla Website for additional information in the introduction of the Registration Process.
The Child Care (Pre-school Services) (No. 2) Regulations 2006
The Child Care (Pre-school Services) (No. 2) Regulations 2006 were made under the Child Care Act 1991. These regulations require all Childcare services to provide specific information to Tusla. They also outline legal requirements in relation to:
- The Health, Welfare and Development of the Child
- First Aid and Medical Assistance
- Management and Staffing
- Behaviour Management
- Record Keeping
- Fire Safety Measures
- Premises and Facilities – Heating, Ventilation, Lighting, Sanitary Accommodation and Waste
- Storage and Disposal
- Equipment and Materials
- Food and Drink
- Safety
- Facilities for Rest and Play
- Insurance
- Inspection
Where to get advice if I have a difficulty or a complaint about a service?