LEGAL INFORMATION

Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016 and Child Care Regulations (The Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) (Amendments) Regulations 2016 

The legal requirements for Childminders in Ireland are set out in the Child Care Act 1991 and Pre-School Services Regulations (2016), made under Part VII of the Act. These requirements apply to all pre-school services catering for children under the age of 6, who are not attending primary school. They cover statutory notification to and inspection by the Tusla on quality of care, premises, safety, management and staffing.

Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 2016

According to the regulations, a Childminder can single-handedly offer

  • A pre-school service, including full day or overnight,
  • For pre-school age children,
  • In the Childminder’s home for more than 2 hours per day.