Minister Foley launches the 2025 Parent and Toddler Group Grant

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 26 February 2025 Last updated on 26 February 2025 Minister for Children, Disability [...]

Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice

Tusla has published a regulatory notice relating to the definition of enrolment in a School Age Service. The notice makes clear [...]

Minister Foley urges childminders in County Longfordto avail of equipment grant

04 February 2025 Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is today calling on all childminders in County [...]

Minister Foley launches the Childminding Development Grants for 2025

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 4 February 2025 Last updated on 4 February 2025 Norma Foley, Minister for [...]

Schools and Early Learning and Childcare Services Severe Weather – Be Winter Ready

Published on 30 January 2020 Last updated on 19 January 2024 Schools and Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) settings should conduct a pre-event [...]

Updated curriculum for babies, toddlers and young children published

From Department of Education;  Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Published on 5 December 2024 Last updated on 5 December 2024 Minister for [...]

Minister announces opening of €25 million capital funding scheme to deliver thousands of early learning and childcare places

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 4 November 2024 Last updated on 5 November 2024 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Government’s free pre-school programme ECCE reaches the one million milestone as results of independent review is published

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 22 October 2024 Last updated on 22 October 2024 New figures show how [...]

Minister O’Gorman welcomes strong commitment from early learning and childcare services to Core Funding for third year running

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 10 October 2024 Last updated on 10 October 2024 • Over 4,200 services have [...]

Minister O’Gorman welcomes record €837m investment from Budget 2025

rom Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 1 October 2024 Last updated on 1 October 2024 • Overall Budget allocation [...]

35,000 children experiencing disadvantage to benefit from funding boost for early learning and childcare settings

• 621 early learning and childcare settings have accepted the Equal Start priority designation to date. • These settings been objectively [...]

Minister O’Gorman publishes new regulations for childminding, paving way for childminders to come into National Childcare Scheme

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 19 September 2024 Last updated on 19 September 2024 • Regulations provide important [...]

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth 

Published on 29 August 2024 Last updated on 29 August 2024 Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman today welcomed [...]

Minister O’Gorman publishes 2023 progress report for First 5, the whole of government strategy for babies, young children and their families

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 9 July 2024 Last updated on 9 July 2024 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces €25m in capital funding to deliver thousands of additional early learning and childcare places

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 3 July 2024 Last updated on 3 July 2024 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Minister announces details of additional funding to ensure children experiencing disadvantage can access early learning

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 20 June 2024 Last updated on 20 June 2024 Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces details of €331 million in funding for early learning and childcare services

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 2 July 2024 Last updated on 2 July 2024 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Ministers O’Gorman and Humphreys launch the My Little Library Book Bag 2024

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 21 June 2024 Last updated on 21 June 2024 Minister Roderic O’Gorman and [...]

Minister announces details of additional funding to ensure children experiencing disadvantage can access early learning

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 20 June 2024 Last updated on 20 June 2024 Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for [...]

Government approves publication of the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2024

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 13 June 2024 Last updated on 14 June 2024 The Minister for Children, [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches public consultation on Irish language provision in early learning and care and school-age childcare

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 6 June 2024 Last updated on 6 June 2024 The Minister for Children, [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces plans for €14m boost in support for children with a disability accessing early learning and childcare

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 5 June 2024 Last updated on 5 June 2024 The Minister for Children, [...]

PRESS RELEASE
16 May 2024
Ministers Foley and Minister O’Gorman launch ‘Ireland’s Literacy, Numeracy and Digital
Literacy Strategy 2024 – 2033’

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 16 May 2024 Last updated on 16 May 2024 Minister for Education, Norma [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches the Childminding Development Grants for 2024

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 16 May 2024 Last updated on 15 May 2024 The Minister for Children, [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces the opening of applications for the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 1 May 2024 Last updated on 1 May 2024 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative 2024

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 21 March 2024 Last updated on 21 March 2024 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces €18 million Capital Grant for the Early Learning and Childcare Sector

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 22 February 2024 Last updated on 22 February 2024 Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches public consultation on new childminding regulations

rom Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 8 February 2024 Last updated on 8 February 2024 The Minister for Children, [...]

New Early Learning and Childcare Data website launched by Minister O’Gorman

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 11 December 2023 Last updated on 11 December 2023 • New website with [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces €45m Capital Grant for the Early Learning and Childcare Sector

rom Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 7 December 2023 Last updated on 6 December 2023 Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for [...]

Minister O’Gorman marks World Children’s Day with new ‘First 5’ implementation plan

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 20 November 2023 The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, [...]

Minister O’Gorman welcomes substantial investment under Budget 2024

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 10 October 2023 Last updated on 11 October 2023 Early Learning and Childcare [...]

Free bedtime story books for all children, 4 years of age and under.

06 October 2023 Roderic O’ Gorman, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth and Heather Humphreys,Minister for Rural and Community [...]

Minister O’Gorman welcomes 90% of early learning
and care services into second year of Core Funding

Over 4,000 services have now applied for a second year of Core Funding,committing to working in partnership with the State for [...]

Childcare service closures at lowest level for five years – new data confirms

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 25 August 2023 Last updated on 25 August 2023 46 net closures in [...]

151 childcare services awarded grants under Building Blocks Improvement Scheme for “greener, warmer” childcare services

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 24 August 2023 Last updated on 24 August 2023 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

90% increase in number of children benefitting from National Childcare Scheme

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 9 August 2023 Last updated on 9 August 2023 Unprecedented demand for the [...]

Minister O’Gorman Launches the 2023 Childminding Development Grant

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 14 June 2023 Last updated on 13 June 2023 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Ministers O’Gorman and Humphreys announce details of My Little Library 2023

Roderic O’ Gorman, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, together with Heather Humphreys, Minister for Rural and Community Development, [...]

Drafting of the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2023

The Government has approved the drafting of the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2023. The Bill, when enacted, will revise and update [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches the Nutrition Standards for Early Learning and Care Services

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 5 May 2023 Last updated on 5 May 2023 Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces €9 million in capital funding
for “greener, warmer” early learning and childcare services

Tuesday 04 March 2023 Green energy and retrofit upgrade grants of €35,000 to €75,000 announced underthe Building Blocks – Improvement Grant [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative 2023

Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, today launched the Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative 2023. The [...]

Transfer of the specialist Disability services function to Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 1 March 2023 Last updated on 2 March 2023 The Minister for Children, [...]

Minister O’Gorman appoints Programme Board to oversee planning for a dedicated State Agency for Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC)

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, today announced the appointment of a Programme Board to oversee the [...]

Government approves proposals to strengthen enforcement powers of the Tusla Early Years Inspectorate and pave the way to regulate childminders

Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, has today secured Government approval to bring forward legislative amendments in [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces Ireland’s participation in international survey of the early learning and care workforce, in partnership with the Central Statistics Office

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, has today announced Ireland’s participation in the OECD Starting Strong Teaching [...]

Record numbers of families now benefitting from subsidised early learning and childcare

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 19 January 2023 Last updated on 19 January 2023 Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for [...]

Thousands of families to benefit from substantial reductions in early learning and childcare costs from today

rom Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 3 January 2023 Last updated on 1 January 2023 3 January 2023 Roderic [...]

Ministers Foley and O’Gorman announce consultation on new
Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Literacy Strategy

Minister for Education Norma Foley and Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, today announced a wide-ranging consultation [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces new scheme to pilot the provision of hot meals to children in early learning and childcare settings

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 22 November 2022 Last updated on 18 November 2022 Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for [...]

Record numbers of families and early learning and childcare providers engaging with the National Childcare Scheme

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 10 November 2022 Last updated on 10 November 2022 90,000 children now benefitting [...]

Minister O’Gorman secures €1bn investment in early learning and childcare

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 28 September 2022 Last updated on 28 September 2022 • Minister O’Gorman today [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches ‘Together for Better’ new funding model for Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare as Core Funding contracts begin for 4,000 services

Together for Better is the new funding model for Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School Age Childcare (SAC) launched by [...]

Historic’ new pay agreement to provide pay increases and wage structure for early learning and childcare workers – Ministers English & O’Gorman

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 7 September 2022 Last updated on 7 September 2022 Employment Regulation Orders to [...]

Minister O’Gorman encourages families to access the National Childcare Scheme as survey shows more than half are unaware of State supports

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 4 September 2022 Last updated on 2 September 2022 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces €10m Capital Grant for the Early Learning and Childcare Sector

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 1 September 2022 Last updated on 1 September 2022 €10m announced under the [...]

Minister O’Gorman welcomes first ‘Partner Services’ as record number of early learning and childcare services signal intention to expand.

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 17 August 2022 Last updated on 17 August 2022 • ‘Partner Service Funding [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces approved National Play Day 2022 funding

Funding to be distributed to Local Authorities in advance of National Play Day All 31 Local Authorities were successful in their [...]

Minister O’Gorman publishes Ireland’s EU Child Guarantee National Action Plan

The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, today published Ireland’s National Action Plan for the EU Child [...]

Minister O’Gorman Launches the 2022 Childminder Development Grant

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 10 June 2022 Last updated on 10 June 2022 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces changes to Regulations to allow for a more streamlined re-registration process for ELC and SAC services and to enhance availability of information on services for parents

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, has signed two amending Regulations in relation to the Early Learning [...]

Changes to the National Childcare Scheme fast tracked to extend access to subsidised early learning and childcare for children and families

Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, has announcedchanges to the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) that will extend [...]

Tusla Children First: Mandated Person Role and Responsibilities eLearning Module

Tusla have launched a new eLearning module for mandated persons. This eLearning module has been developed to provide information on, and [...]

Seachtain na Gaeilge 2022

Seachtain na Gaeilge 2022 runs from 1st March until 17th March. Below is some resources, your service may find useful, we’ve [...]

Important update on the new Public Holiday on 18 March 2022 and ECCE, NCS, CCSP service calendars

PIP/Hive Announcement Dear Service Provider, This year (2022) an extra once-off public holiday will take place on Friday, 18 March. From [...]

AIM 2021/22 and EWSS

PIP/Hive Announcement Dear Service Provider, Please note, as advised by Revenue, EWSS subsidy rates are due to reduce from 1st March 2022.  [...]

Februarys DCEDIY Early Years e-bulletin now available

The February Early Years e-bulletin is now available. The e-Bulletin includes updates from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and [...]

Weekly Bulletin 25.02.22

To view this weeks bulletin, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/712a1b6f7fd5/weekly-bulletin-6041666

Minister O’Gorman issues statement to Early Learning and Childcare Providers on Removal of Public Health Restrictions

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 22 February 2022 Last updated on 22 February 2022 The Minister for Children, [...]

Quality Development Service Information Session (Better Start)

Better Starts next online information webinar is taking place on the 23rd of February, from 3pm to 4pm. Follow the link [...]

Weekly Bulletin 18.02.22

To view this weeks bulletin 14-18th February, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/9e837f79965e/weekly-bulletin-6030342F

Ireland Reads

Dear ELC/SAC Service Providers, Following a hugely successful introduction in 2021, Ireland Reads is back for February 2022! Irish libraries, Children’s [...]

Force Majeure for service closures due to Storm Eunice

PIP/Hive Announcement 17.02.22 Due to the extreme nature of Storm Eunice and the threat of multi-hazard weather events as confirmed by [...]

Pobal Compliance Information Session

Longford CCC will be holding a virtual  information session on ECCE and CCSP Savers Compliance on March 3rd at 12.45pm. Should [...]

Statement from DCEDIY on Storm Eunice – 17 February 2022

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 17 February 2022 Last updated on 17 February 2022 Due to the extreme [...]

Update on new public holiday in Ireland in 2022 and from 2023

PIP/Hive Announcement Dear Service Provider, This year (2022) an extra once-off public holiday will take place on Friday, 18 March. From [...]

Information Event on the National Childminding Action Plan

ATTENTION: CHILDMINDERS   WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION ON THE NATIONAL ACTION PLAN FOR CHILDMINDING? DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE [...]

Coffee Morning for Parents of Children with Additional Needs Re-opened

National Lottery Funding Grants

Applications are now being invited by the HSE for National Lottery Funding Grants. This funding is distributed by the HSE each [...]

Action Learning in Challenging Times

Earlier this week, you received information from the DCEDIY about a new active learning opportunity happening next week.This event offers the [...]

Weekly Bulletin 11.02.22

To view this weeks bulletin 7-11th February, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/102964fe523b/weekly-bulletin-6025870

Recording Concerns Forms and Info Blast

As you are aware, the Child Safeguarding Resource Document – Child Safeguarding Statement, Policy and Procedures; Guidance for Early Learning and [...]

‘Seeing Voices’ Voice of the Child Report Launch in Louth

The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, welcomed the launch of our “Seeing Voices – Voice of [...]

Longford Town P & T Group is now REOPENED

The venue has changed to Longford Community Resources clg.

Weekly Bulletin 04.02.22

To view this weeks bulletin 31st Jan-4th February, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/f1d20523050a/weekly-bulletin-040222

Minister O’Gorman marks Day of Hope and Recognition for Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 4 February 2022 Last updated on 4 February 2022 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

NCS Refresher Webinar now available on the Hive

Dear Service Provider,  Following on from the NCS Refresher webinars last week, a recorded version of the webinar is now available [...]

Weekly Bulletin 28.01.22

To view this weeks bulletin 24th-28th January, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/fd09431f377c/weekly-bulletin-6014590

Minister O’Gorman announces consultation on next national policy framework for children & young people

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 27 January 2022 Last updated on 27 January 2022 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Update on Tusla’s COVID-19 Notification Assessments – Early Years Services

Letter from Tusla to Service Providers.

Better Outcomes Brighter Future Annual Report 2020

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 20 January 2022 Last updated on 21 January 2022 Better Outcomes Brighter Future [...]

Minister O’Gorman Statement to Early Learning and Childcare Providers

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 21 January 2022 Last updated on 21 January 2022 The Minister for Children, [...]

Portobello Institute Virtual Webinar ‘Supporting Language and Literacy Development in Early Childhood’

Portobello Institute’s Early Years department’s upcoming webinar on Monday, February 7th, 7pm to 9pm will be led by Dr Geraldine French, [...]

Weekly Bulletin 21.01.22

To view this weeks bulletin 17th-21st January, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/5796cae9844d/weekly-bulletin-6007610.

New Healthy Ireland Smart Start Programme Dates 2022

Upcoming Healthy Ireland Smart Start Programmes Given the invaluable role that early childhood services providers and practitioners/educators play in promoting children’s [...]

Better Start QDS Webinar 26th January 2022

Join Better Start to learn about the professional development opportunities available to you and your team when you engage with the [...]

Edgeworthstown Parent and Toddler Group

Here are the upcoming dates for Edgeworthstown Parent and Toddler Group (see poster above).

Grant Programme for Improved Ventilation and Outdoor Play 2021 announcement

The DCEDIY and Pobal wish to advise all Early Learning and Care and School Aged childcare services the Grant Programme for [...]

Weekly Bulletin 14.01.22

To view this weeks bulletin 10th-14th January, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/0e6862cda203/weekly-bulletin-6001506

Are you a childminder or thinking of becoming a childminder in your own home?

LINC+, the CPD Programme for LINC Graduates

LINC+ will be accepting new registrations from LINC graduates for package 1, Communities of Practice in Early Learning and Care on January 17, [...]

Invitation to NCS Refresher Webinar

Dear Service Provider, Pobal’s Early Years Training Team would like to invite you to an NCS refresher webinar next week. The [...]

Finance and Impact Returns (FIRs) for Dec 2021 Available for Completion at Pobal Online *Community Services ONLY

Dear Service Provider, The CCSP Finance and Impact returns (FIRs) for December 2021 are available for completion on Pobal Online. As [...]

Minister O’ Gorman Issues Statement to Early Learning and Childcare Providers

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 31 December 2021 Last updated on 31 December 2021 The Minister for Children, [...]

Decembers DCEDIY Early Years e-bulletin now available

The December Early Years e-bulletin is now available. The e-Bulletin includes updates from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and [...]

DCEDIY Covid-19 Digital Resource Pack

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 20 December 2021 Last updated on 21 December 2021 Recognising the importance of [...]

Weekly Bulletin 17.12.21

To view this weeks bulletin 13th-17th December, please click on this link https://mailchi.mp/b6c37570fa01/weekly-bulletin-5252954.

Grant Programme for Improved Ventilation and Outdoor Play 2021

The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Roderic O’Gorman TD, is pleased to announce a programme of further supports [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces suite of new measures to support the early learning and childcare sector in latest wave of Covid-19

The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman ,T.D., has today announced a suite of new Covid-19 measures [...]

Government Programme Payment Dates

Please see the below payment dates for early year’s programmes over the Christmas and New Year’s weeks:

EYPC and NCS Parent Support Centre Opening Hours

Please see below Opening hours for EYPC and NCS Parent Support Centre over the Holiday Period.

Weekly Bulletin 10.12.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here, https://mailchi.mp/aa6e312d5fe4/weekly-bulletin-5249846

NCS and CCSP: End-of-year maintenance announcement

Dear Service Provider, As it is coming up to the Christmas holidays and the end of 2021, it may be necessary [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches Nurturing Skills: The Workforce Plan for Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare (2022 – 2028)

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 7 December 2021 Last updated on 7 December 2021 The Minister for Children, [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches major reform of funding for early learning and childcare following Report of Expert Group

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 7 December 2021 Last updated on 7 December 2021 Minister Roderic O’Gorman has [...]

Minister O’Gorman publishes the findings of a 12-Month Review of the National Childcare Scheme (NCS)

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 1 December 2021 Last updated on 1 December 2021 Review reveals the National [...]

Note to providers on Force Majeure

Force Majeure in ELC and SAC services is a mechanism under which service providers can be given permission to close and [...]

Better Start QDS Information Session

Would you like a mentor to work with your setting on Quality Development? Join Better Start to learn about the mentoring [...]

Providers AIM Information Session

ELC Providers Longford CCC, in collaboration with the AIM Better Start team, are hosting a virtual information workshop on AIM on [...]

Hive Announcement; AIM 2021/2022 and EWSS

Dear Service Provider,  Following the recent announcement on changes to the rates and timelines of the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) we [...]

Childminding Networking Event; Storytelling with Liz Weir

Minister O’Gorman announces second phase of Little Library Initiative providing free book bags for all childcare services

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 19 November 2021 Last updated on 19 November 2021 Launch of the second [...]

Updating Aistear

Aistear The Early Childhood Curriculum Framework is being updated and you have an opportunity to contribute. The National Council for Curriculum [...]

Tusla Signs of Safety eLearning Programme

Tusla’s Signs of Safety eLearning Programme is now available.  Tusla has developed a child protection e-learning briefing programme for professionals working with children and families [...]

New Co-Payment Tool Available on the Early Years Hive

Providers, A new co-payment tool is available on the Early Years Hive. You can access the co-payment tool under individual child [...]

Latest Barnardos Childlinks NOW available

The latest edition of Childlinks on Children’s Particapation is now available. To download now, please click here.

Novembers DCEDIY Early Years e-bulletin now available

The November Early Years e-bulletin is now available. The e-Bulletin includes updates from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and [...]

Weekly Bulletin 05.11.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here, https://mailchi.mp/1167e11f3625/weekly-bulletin-5233562…

Mid-term Break Updates: NCS Service Calendar and Non-Term Hours; and CCSP Session Amendments

Dear Service Provider, As the majority of schools are closed due to the mid-term break the week of 25 October, it [...]

Weekly Bulletin 22.10.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/5d171ec5bfe4/weekly-bulletin-5227294.

Healthy Ireland Smart Start (HISS) Birth – 3 Years Programme

Important new Health Promotion Programme for Babies and Toddlers National Childhood Network and HSE Health and Wellbeing are delighted to invite [...]

Portobello Institute 3rd Virtual Webinar ‘Embracing a Nurturing Pedagogy’

This is the third Virtual Webinar in the webinar series, free to all, with Nóirín Hayes, eCertificate for attendance. Register now [...]

Edgeworthstown Parent & Toddler Group

Edgeworthstown Parent & Toddler group will recommence from Tuesday 2nd November at 9:30am. To register email enquiries@longfordchildcare.ie or telephone 043 3342505.

The Childminding Difference Webinar

It is widely acknowledged that home-based Childminding is different from other forms of early childhood services. How can that difference be [...]

AIM Parents Information Session

Longford CCC will be hosting a virtual AIM Information Session on Wednesday 3rd November at 7pm. To register your place, please [...]

Buggy Walks

6 week walking group open to all parents, grandparents, childminders etc in the care of babies/toddlers looking to join a social [...]

Weekly Bulletin 15.10.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/a533a9c8fd06/weekly-bulletin-5224450.

Longford Town Parent & Toddler Group

Looking to join a Parent and Toddler Group in Longford Town and meet others in a safe and friendly space, contact [...]

Weekly Bulletin 8.10.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/fd678381e974/weekly-bulletin-5221786.

Weekly Bulletin 1.10.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/be9619ace77a/weekly-bulletin-011021

September edition DCEDIY Early Years e-bulletin

The September edition of the DCEDIY Early Years e-bulletin is now available. The e-bulletin includes updates from the Department of Children, [...]

Student Placement Guidelines

The Student Placement Guidelines, developed by the Department of Education and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, which [...]

Arrangements for the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme

Dear Provider, At the Government meeting today, it was agreed that the existing arrangements for the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme will [...]

Weekly Bulletin 24.09.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/0e8530fdd0a2/weekly-bulletin-5215850

Childminding Network Event 4.10.21

Childminders Longford CCC will be hosting another Virtual Networking event with Childminders in collaboration with Music Generation Longford on Monday, 4th [...]

Weekly Bulletin 10.09.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/ec352206ec05/weekly-bulletin-100921

Beep Beep Day 2021

National Beep Beep Day 2021 will take place on Friday, 8 October, during Irish Road Safety Week. The online ordering facility [...]

LW CYPSC Early Years ‘Promoting Play’ Resource List 2021

The following resource list has been collated by members of the Longford Westmeath CYPSC Early Years Learning Subgroup and is not [...]

Weekly Bulletin 03.09.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/8b2ab13e5710/weekly-bulletin-5207874.

Fear-Less Webinars

Upcoming Triple P Fear-Less webinars, please see posters for further details.

Quality Development Service Information Session

Better Start are hosting a webinar September 21st, 7pm to 8pm. To find out more about the Quality Development Service, follow [...]

Department of Education – Circular 0044/2021; Early Years Inspections Update

Arrangements for Department of Education Inspectorate Engagement with Early Learning and Care (ELC) settings September 2021 – June 2022. For full [...]

Weekly Bulletin 27.08.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/26612b61c875/weekly-bulletin-5205018.

Early Years Re-registration Webinar

The Early Years Re-registration webinar that took place on Wednesday 17th August 2021 is now available to view on the Tusla [...]

Weekly Bulletin 20.08.21

To view this weeks bulletin, please click here https://mailchi.mp/827bdcee36ff/weekly-bulletin-5202590.

Early Years Inspectorate Q & A document updated

The Early Years Inspectorate Q&A document has been updated to reflect changes in policy and practice and to ensure it is [...]

A Guide to Services for Young People with Disabilities

A few years ago Longford CCC along with Westmeath CCC compiled a directory called ‘A Guide to Services for Young People [...]

Notice to providers on Fees List Publication

Dear Service Provider, As you are aware, ECCE and NCS providers are contractually required to publish their fees lists: • in [...]

Weekly Bulletin 13.08.21

To view this weeks bulletin please click here https://mailchi.mp/2d912d1de998/weekly-bulletin-5200258.

Childminder Learner Fund Bursary 2024

If you would like an application form or you have any questions please contact us on 043-3342505 or email enquiries@longfordchildcare.ie The [...]

Learner Fund Graduate Bursary – 2021

If you would like an application form or you have any questions please contact us on 043-3342505 or email enquiries@longfordchildcare.ie The [...]

Tusla Notice Re: Garda Vetting

Updated notice from the Early Years Inspectorate in relation to Garda Vetting.

QRF eLearning

The final two modules of the QRF eLearning programme are now available on Tusla’s website. -Health, Welfare and Development of the [...]

Two new FREE Barnardos Resources

There are two new FREE publications available from Barnardos for Early Years Professionals. These are: -Sharing Development Concerns with Parents: A [...]

AIM Rules Update

The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) Rules for the 2021/2022 ECCE programme year are now available here.

Minister O’Gorman announces €250,000 for Parent & Toddler Group Grants

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’ Gorman, T.D., today announced that €250,000 will be available in grants [...]

Parent and Toddler Group Grants

Parent and Toddler Group Grants 2021 are NOW open to Applications, if you would like to know more or would like [...]

Better Start have a new website

Better Start have a new website www.betterstart.ie   You can find information on Better Start’s three operational programmes: • Quality Development Service• Access and [...]

Childminders to participate on Representation & Consultation Groups

We want to hear from Childminders! As part of the National Action Plan for Childminding (NAPC), the DCEDIY are seeking childminders [...]

Public Health Webinar

The Department will host a Public Health webinar for services on Wednesday 7th July at 2pm. The webinar will include update [...]

Latest DCEDIY Newsletter

The June edition Early Years sectoral e-bulletin is now available. The e-bulletin includes updates from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, [...]

Process for checking ECCE fees lists for the 2021/2022 programme year

Dear Service Provider, The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth would like to advise you that the process for [...]

HPSC updated Guidance Document

There is a revised version of the HSE Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for ELC and SAC settings now available. With [...]

Transition from Naíonra to Primary School

There are lots of resources available on the Gaeloideachas website to help with the transition from home to Naíonra as well [...]

New Insights Webinar- Transition to Primary School 2021- Learning from COVID 19 Experiences

The latest short webinar on ‘Transitions to Primary School 2021- Learning from COVID-19 experiences’ from the Insights Webinar Series from the [...]

AIM 2021/22 and EWSS

Dear Service Provider, As per the AIM Programme Rules, the wages of an employee may be supported through either EWSS or [...]

Update to Tusla arrangements following HSE cyberattack

Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School Aged Care (SAC) childcare providers must be registered with Tusla, the Child and Family [...]

BLÁTHÚ Summer Newsletter

The Bláthú Summer Newsletter is now available, please click here.

Playground Passport

Playground passport- A Family Guide to Longford’s Playgrounds. This handy guide contains lots of useful information on the 24 playgrounds in [...]

Playing Outside Grant 2021 Information Session

Longford CCC are running an information session on Thursday 24th at 11am for the Playing Outside Grant 2021. Should you wish [...]

Department of Education 2021 Summer Programme for Children with Complex Needs, including those transitioning to Primary School

Minister O’Gorman invites applications to the Communities Integration Fund 2021

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 15 June 2021 Last updated on 15 June 2021 €500,000 will be made [...]

Latest Annual Sector Profile is NOW available to read.

The Annual Early Years Sector Profile 2019/2020 The Annual Early Years Sector Profile 2019/2020 is available to read in full here. This [...]

Childminding Development Grants 2021

The Childminding Development Grants 2021 are open to applications from this Monday 14th June. If you would like an application form, [...]

Sensory Play Through Music Webinar

Hibernia College “Early Childhood Educator Online Webinar Series – Webinar 4” ‘Sensory Play through Music’ this Monday 14th June at 7.30-8.30pm. [...]

AIM Website Re-design

We are happy to share the re-design of the Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) website: www.aim.gov.ie. The website was designed with [...]

PSP 2021-22 announcement

The Programme Support Payments (PSP) will open for applications on the Early Years Hive from Friday, 4th June until Friday, 25th [...]

​Outdoor Enhancement Grant

Further to the recent announcement by the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, T.D., on the Summer of Play [...]

FAR Update

Longford CCC First Aid Response (FAR) Communications Final Chance to claim FAR Reimbursement FAR regulatory requirement extension to November 2021 Please [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces roll out of Summer of Play initiative with €6m in funding for outdoor play

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 1 June 2021 Last updated on 31 May 2021 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Pobal NCS Compliance

Dear Provider, We are writing to let you know that Pobal is conducting compliance checks on the National Childcare Scheme. Pobal, [...]

Early Learning and Childcare providers are today being urged to participate in the Annual Early Years Sector Profile survey and a new supplementary survey on income and costs

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 28 May 2021 Last updated on 28 May 2021 Early Learning and Childcare [...]

Storytelling & Puppetry CPD Virtual Webinar

Storytelling and Puppetry virtual workshop with BLÁTHÚ next Wednesday 2nd June 2021 from 7-8.30pm. For booking details, please see poster.

Updating Aistear

The NCCA is updating Aistear and holding a consultation. Phase 1 of consultation is now open and will be open until 31/12/2021. [...]

Balance Ability Programme 2021 with Longford Sports Partnership

Balance Ability Programme with Longford Sports Partnership combines unique ergonomic balance bikes with a variety of fun activities that build confidence, [...]

Child Initiated Outdoor Play Webinar

Hibernia College “Early Childhood Educator Online Webinar Series – Webinar 1” ‘Child Initiated Outdoor Play’ this Monday 24th May at 7.30-8.30pm. [...]

Tusla Early Years (Pre School) Inspectorate

Update Thursday 20th May 2021 As you will be aware, all Tusla ICT systems have been disabled as a precaution in response to [...]

Survey for Childminders on staffed local childminding networks

Just a quick reminder that the closing date for the Staffed Local Childminding Network Survey is fast approaching,  please ensure that [...]

Childminding Network Meeting

Childminders (Longford) Next scheduled Virtual Networking Meeting planned for Tuesday 25th May. If you would like to attend, you can book [...]

12-month NCS Review Provider and Parent Surveys

DCEDIY have initiated a review of the first 12 months of the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) under Section 26 of the [...]

Minister O’Gorman and Minister Foley announce information and resources for children preparing for pre-school and junior infants

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 14 May 2021 Last updated on 14 May 2021 Minister for Children Equality, [...]

AIM Application Process for Sept 2021

AIM application process for September 2021 pre-school year The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) is a model of supports designed to [...]

Virtual Webinar on Transition from Preschool to Primary School

Providers_ A webinar on the ‘Transition from Preschool to Primary School’ is being held virtually this Monday 17th May at 7pm. [...]

Ministers O’Gorman and Humphreys launch ‘Little Library’ initiative to encourage a love of reading among young children

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 8 May 2021 Last updated on 7 May 2021 4,500 Early Learning and [...]

​Important email security message from POBAL

Dear Service Provider, If you have received an email claiming to be from a member of Pobal staff requesting your email/account [...]

AIM Update

Dear Service Provider, The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) is a model of supports designed to ensure that children with disabilities [...]

Tusla Early Years Inspectorate Webinars

The Tusla Early Years Inspectorate Spring webinars (delivered in March) are now available to view in full on the Tusla website [...]

Podcast on Developing a Child Safeguarding Statement

The National Child Safeguarding Programme Coordinator Laura Dagger recently recorded a Podcast with Early Childhood Ireland on Developing a Child Safeguarding [...]

LINC open for applications

LINC opened for applications on Monday 19th April. Deadline is 14th May at 4pm. If you would like to apply please [...]

Childminding Network Meeting

Childminders (Longford) Next scheduled Virtual Networking Meeting planned for Wednesday 28th April. If you would like to attend, you can book [...]

The Danger of Button Batteries

University Hospital Waterford staff have put together a short, 3-minute video about the risks of button batteries to children under the [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches National Action Plan for Childminding (2021 – 2028)

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 15 April 2021 Last updated on 15 April 2021 The Minister for Children, [...]

Communication issued to providers of the resumption of compliance checks on the ECCE programme from 19 April and resumption of DE Inspections for April-June.

13.04.21 Dear Provider, We are writing to you today regarding the resumption of compliance checks on the ECCE programme from 19 [...]

Development of a National Model of Parenting Support Services

A collaborative working group set up by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is currently developing a national [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches the National Framework for Children and Young People’s Participation in Decision-Making

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 14 April 2021 Last updated on 14 April 2021 • The Participation Framework [...]

Launch of Childminding Action Plan

Save the DATE Thursday 15th April Click here to join the Webex Event (if you click into this link now, you [...]

Minister O’Gorman recommends establishment of Joint Labour Committee for the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) sector

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 12 March 2021 Last updated on 12 March 2021 The Minister for Children, [...]

LINC launches new CPD Programme for over 3,000 graduates.

Thousands of Inclusion Coordinators (INCOs) across Ireland will be offered an opportunity to further expand their knowledge and skillset with free [...]

ELC & SAC Providers Out of Hours Covid-19 Support Helpline

The DCEDIY have established a weekend COVID-19 Support Helpline for Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare providers who have [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces gradual lifting of restrictions on delivery of early learning and childcare services from 08 March

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 23 February 2021 Last updated on 23 February 2021 As part of the [...]

TUSLA Publication of research reports 3rd February 2021

Tusla has published three reports detailing findings from inspections of Early Years Services and parent’s views on the inspection process. These [...]

Early Learning and Care & School Age Care Capital Programme 2021

The Department of Children Equality Diversity Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the [...]

Minister announces new funding arrangements to support delivery of early learning and childcare during extended Level 5 restrictions

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 27 January 2021 Last updated on 27 January 2021 Following Cabinet approval yesterday [...]

Resumption of the pre-school programme postponed and childcare services to remain open for the children of essential workers and vulnerable children only, until 01 February

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 6 January 2021 Last updated on 6 January 2021 Following Cabinet approval this [...]

Resumption of the pre-school programme postponed until 11 January, in line with reopening of primary and secondary schools

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 1 January 2021 Last updated on 4 January 2021 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Quality and Regulatory Framework (QRF) eLearning Update

The Premises and Facilities module of the  Quality and Regulatory Framework (QRF) eLearning programme is now available to access on the [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces new book gifting project for 4,500 Early Learning and Care settings

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 17 December 2020 Last updated on 17 December 2020 4,500 Early Learning and [...]

Completion of 2019 Re-registration

The re-registration of most early years preschool services took place in the latter part of 2019. In an effort to assist [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces additional investment to support children with disabilities in pre-school care

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 15 December 2020 Last updated on 15 December 2020 Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Update on Capital GRANTS 2021

Letter issued to providers 3rd December 2021 Dear Provider, We are writing to let you know about the early learning and [...]

Information webinar on the New Funding Model and the Workforce Development Plan

Dear Provider, The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) invites you to an information webinar on two major [...]

Minister O’Gorman publishes detailed annual progress report for First 5

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published on 20 November 2020 Last updated on 20 November 2020 The Minister for Children, [...]

Garda Vetting Webinar

The Garda Vetting webinar is now available on the National Child Safeguarding Programme website.  It can be found under the Early [...]

Update on FAR Responder Recertification (12/11/20)

Full update from the PHECC Website Due to the recent Government restrictions and the continuing challenges posed by Covid-19, please see [...]

DCEDIY Early Years Division November e-Bulletin

The latest edition of the Early Years sectoral e-Bulletin, which includes updates from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and [...]

First 5 Consultation with Parents on a new Funding Model for ELC and SAC

Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth will be hosting a number of online focused discussions with parents from 23 [...]

Virtual Information Session for Childminders

Are you looking to set up a childminding business? Longford CCC are hosting a virtual Information session ‘Setting up a childminding [...]

Quality and Regulatory Framework (QRF) eLearning Programme now available

Tusla’s Quality and Regulatory Framework eLearning programme was developed following consultation with the early years sector in relation to the supports [...]

Minister O’Gorman publishes Independent Review of the Costs of Providing Quality Early Learning and Childcare in Ireland

From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth  Published at 19 October 2020 Last updated 19 October 2020 The Minister for Children, Equality, [...]

Student Placement Guidelines

The Student Placements Guidelines for Early Learning and Care Settings. These Guidelines have been developed by the Department of Children and [...]

The new look National Child Safeguarding Programme; Early Learning and Care has launched its new website.

This website will be a one stop shop for all information, supports and resources for Early Learning and Care Services, Practitioners, [...]

LINC is back! LINC PROGRAMME 2020/2021

The Leadership for INClusion in the Early Years (LINC) Consortium has been awarded a tender by the Department of Children and [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches National Quality Guidelines for School-Age Childcare Services

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, T.D., today launched National Quality Guidelines for School-Age Childcare Services. The [...]

Changes to HSE Covid-19 Assessment Testing and Management Pathway Documents

Dear Service Provider, Please note that we have been advised by the HSE of some changes to their assessment testing and [...]

Information Webinar

Dear Early Years Providers, The Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) invites you to an information webinar at 18.00 on [...]

Minister O’Gorman welcomes 50% increase in recipients of Childminder Development Grant

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at 11 September 2020 Last updated 11 September 2020 Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, [...]

Update on HPSC Health Advice on Symptoms of Covid-19 for Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare Settings

The HPSC have published a new Decision Pathways document that provides some new information on when children from 3 months to [...]

UPDATE: Always Children First Training

Due to current Public Health advice, the Early Years specific Always Children First Foundation Level training is on hold.  We understand [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches programme of consultation on a Workforce Development Plan and a new Funding Model for early learning and care and school-age childcare

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 19 August 2020 Last updated 19 August 2020 The Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and [...]

Update for Early Years’ Service Providers on COVID-19 from Tusla

Tusla’s Early Years Inspectorate has developed guidance for registered providers of early years services  to  support and facilitate the safe reopening [...]

Updated Early Learning and Care Child Safeguarding Statement Template

The National Early Years Children First Programme, in conjunction with Tusla, have updated the Early Learning and Care, Child Safeguarding Statement [...]

July Jobs Stimulus Funding Package for Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) sector

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 25 July 2020 Last updated 25 July 2020 The Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and [...]

Minister O’Gorman launches consultation on Child Care Act proposals

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 23 July 2020 Last updated 23 July 2020 The Department of Children and Youth Affairs [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces increase in the number of early learning and care services which have reopened

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 21 July 2020 Last updated 21 July 2020 Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, [...]

The 1916 Bursary Fund is now open for applications.

The 1916 Bursary Fund is a targeted funding scheme established by the Department of Education and Skills. The Bursary is being [...]

Tusla E Learning Programme now available in Irish

The Tusla ELearning Programme is now also available in Irish. This version is also available through the usual ELearning link – [...]

Minister O’Gorman meets with Early Years sector representatives

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 16 July 2020 Last updated 16 July 2020 The Minister also announced the resumption of [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces the publication of a ‘Focused Policy Assessment’ of the ECCE Higher Capitation Payment

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 15 July 2020 Last updated 15 July 2020 The Minister for Minister for Children, Disability, [...]

Insights – Quality in Early Years Education

From Department of Education and Skills  Published at: 10 July 2020 Last updated 10 July 2020 Image: Insights Introduction Welcome to the Insights webinar series. [...]

Minister O’Gorman announces positive sign-up rate for childcare services since reopening on 29 June

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 9 July 2020 Last updated 9 July 2020 Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, [...]

EYPC-Pobal

EYPC CONTACT DETAILS If you wish to contact the EYPC, you can do so by raising a Service Request on the [...]

Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practuce 2nd Edition

Tusla have updated Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice.  The version on the Tusla website is the 2nd [...]

Childminding Development Grants 2020 now OPEN

The Childminding Development Grants 2020 are NOW open to applications. If you would like an application form, please email maudie@longfordchildcare.ie. Closing [...]

National Playday

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 2 July 2020 Last updated 2 July 2020 National Play Day 2020 will take place on [...]

Reopening Funding Package for Childcare Services: Further Information

Please find attached version 2 of the FAQs on the Reopening Funding Package for Childcare Services. This is an update to [...]

Plans for inspection process during the Covid-19 pandemic

The DCYA have issued a update to all providers about the inspection process for period going forward, please see below. Dear [...]

Let’s get ready to return to your pre-school, creche or childminder.

Let’s get ready so childcare is fun and safe for everyone. The Department of Children & Youth Affairs has developed this [...]

Minister Zappone and Minister McHugh announce information and resources for children preparing for pre-school and junior infants

Press release From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 15 June 2020 Last updated 16 June 2020 The Minister for Children and [...]

Message from Minister Zappone to the childcare sector

Message from Minister Zappone to the childcare

Minister Zappone announces funding package of €75M for Reopening Early Learning and Childcare Services

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 10 June 2020 Last updated 10 June 2020 Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Katherine [...]

The Access and Inclusion Model, (AIM) programme for 2020/2021 is now open

Latest update from Better Start AIM.

Guidance for Reopening/First 5

Today the Department of Children and Youth Affairs has launched a range of online resources and guidance to support service providers, [...]

Minister Zappone chairs fifth meeting of Advisory Group on planned reopening of childcare services

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 3 June 2020 Last updated 3 June 2020 Minister for Children & Youth Affairs, Dr [...]

Minister Zappone announces decisions and guidance to support the reopening of childcare services

From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 29 May 2020 Last updated 29 May 2020 Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr [...]

Minister Zappone chairs fourth meeting of Advisory Group on planned reopening of childcare centres

PRESS RELEASE From Department of Children and Youth Affairs  Published at: 27 May 2020 Last updated 27 May 2020 Minister for Children & Youth [...]

Garda Vetting Update-Apply for your GNVB NOW

Update Applications for Vetting The National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012 to 2016 provide a statutory basis for [...]

Minister Zappone Meets with EU Ministers to Discuss the Impact of COVID-19 on the Youth Sector

Published: 20 May 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr. Katherine Zappone, participated in [...]

Minister Zappone chairs meeting of the ‘Advisory Group on Reopening Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare services’

Published: 18 May 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs Dr. Katherine Zappone, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, chaired the second [...]

Statement on cancellation of Temporary Childcare Scheme for Essential Health Workers

Published: 13 May 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone today announced, [...]

TCSEHW FAQs and Support Pack

The Temporary Childcare Scheme for Essential Health Workers FAQs and Support Pack is currently available on the DCYA website to download [...]

Minister Zappone announces plan to provide childcare for essential health workers

Published: 7 May 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, today announced [...]

Updated FAQs Version 5 and updated TWSCS How to Guide

Dear providers, Please see below updated ‘Information and Frequently Asked Questions on COVID-19 Measures for providers and staff of Early Learning and [...]

COVID-19: Emergency Childcare service for Essential Healthcare Workers from 18 May

Today the Taoiseach has outlined a ‘roadmap’ to lifting restrictions. Government has asked the Department of Children and Youth Affairs to [...]

Updated FAQs v4 & TWSCS: A How-To-Guide

Providers, please see attached updated ‘Information and Frequently Asked Questions on COVID-19 Measures for providers and staff of Early Learning and Care [...]

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs’ Message to the Young People of Ireland

Published: 24 April 2020 From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs “We have never needed you to step up so much, [...]

Minister Zappone launches suite of resources for children and parents

Published: 24 April 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs Parents Centre contains information for parents and provides links to a wide [...]

Minister Zappone publishes Statistical Spotlight #4 Young Travellers in Ireland

Published: 14 April 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs 3,080 Travellers and 688 Roma attended an Early Years Service in 2017/2018 [...]

COVID-19 measures for providers of services and staff (ELC & SAC)

To read the FAQs in relation to these measures, please follow this link https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/17507b-information-on-covid-19-measures-for-providers-and-staff-of-early-le/

Minister Katherine Zappone announces measures to support Childcare Providers and Parents during Covid-19 closures

Published: 25 March 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs Following the announcement yesterday of sustainability measures in response to Covid-19 by [...]

Letter from Minister Zappone to ELC & SAC providers

Update

Here is a link to more information on COVID-19 ( https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/240258-up-to-date-information-on-covid-19/) Here is a link to the DCYA website with information for [...]

Update

See update below, on how to contact LCCC. Staff are available on the office number 043-3342505.

Letter from the DCYA

Postponed- Consultation events on the new Funding Model and Workforce Development Plan will not go ahead

Further to the announcement made this morning by the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD of efforts to contain the spread of Covid-19, [...]

Minister Zappone welcomes launch of the Postal Application Process for the National Childcare Scheme

Published: 11 March 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs 30,359 applications received to date for 39,572 children. The National Childcare Scheme [...]

COVID-19

Who is at risk? How to prevent? The Symptoms and what to do if you are at risk!

Let’s talk about Early Learning and Care and School Aged Childcare

Longford County Childcare Committee invites you (Early Years Practitioners) to a meeting in the county to talk about our future workforce [...]

Minister Zappone launches consultation to start national conversation on Early Learning and Care and School-age Childcare

Published: 28 February 2020From: Department of Children and Youth Affairs The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, today announced [...]

Childminding Event-4th March- Longford Library

Please see poster for more details.

Early Years Inspectorate NEWS-Quality and Regulatory Framework Update

The Quality and Regulatory Framework (QRF) sets out in a clear way how the early years inspectorate assess services for compliance with the [...]

Minister Zappone secures €8.1 million for childcare capital grants across 2020

Gov.ie – Minister Zappone secures €8.1 million for childcare capital grants across 2020 Extra spaces and funding to support regulatory compliance [...]

Minister Zappone welcomes international recognition for AIM programme

DCYA Press Release, 5 December 2019 additional funding of €10 million secured under Budget 2020 for the programme, which provides both [...]

DCYA Early Years Latest E-Bulletin

To view the latest E-Bulletin from the DCYA Early Years Division, please click here. The following topics are featured in the [...]

Calling all Childminders- Have your say!

Minister Zappone publishes the Mid-Term Review and Phase Two Action Plan

Minister Zappone publishes the Mid-Term Review and Phase Two Action Plan of the National Strategy on Children and Young People’s Participation [...]

Minister Zappone publishes new data on the cost

Minister Zappone publishes new data on the cost of early learning and care and school-age childcare to families Published: 27 September [...]

Minister Zappone launches communications campaign

Minister Zappone launches communications campaign on the National Childcare Scheme Monday 23rd September 2019 The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, [...]

Minister Zappone announces Expert Group to develop

Minister Zappone announces Expert Group to develop a new Funding Model for Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare The [...]

Parent & Toddler Grants 2019 – Applications now Open

Minister Zappone launches Draft Childminding Action Plan

29th August 2019 Draft Action Plan  sets out proposals for improving access to high quality and affordable early learning and care [...]

Midlands Area Parenting Partnership (Triple P) Autumn Training

For information on training for Co Longford visit http://askaboutparenting.ie/longford-schedule/ or contact 090) 64 47111

National Childcare Scheme Newsletter July 2019

Click here to view the National Childcare Scheme July Newsletter.

Childminding Development Grant 2019

Applications for childminding grants is now open, with calls for applications closing 14th August 2019. For the application form, please click [...]

1916 Bursary Fund

1916 Bursary : 2019 Academic year Online application process is now open Closing date for applications 4pm, Oct. 4,  2019. MEND [...]

DCYA Press Release-National Childcare Scheme

Monday July 1st 2019 Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Katherine Zappone, T.D., will update Government this week on the development [...]

The latest ebulletin from the DCYAs Early Years Division

The June edition of DCYA’s Early Years e-bulletin is now available. In this edition there is information updates for you from [...]

NCS Parent Hotline now open

The National Childcare Scheme Parent Call Centre is now open! Parents can call 01 906 8530 for information on the #nationalchildcarescheme. Open [...]

Latest Early Years E-Bulletin

Click here for the latest E-Bulletin from the DCYAs Early Years Division Topics such as the following are featured in this [...]

Implementation Plan for First 5

Minister publishes detailed implementation plan for First 5, the whole-of-Government strategy for babies, young children and their families Tuesday 22nd May [...]

School Age Childcare Public Consultation

Have your say on School Age ChildcarePublic Consultation launched ahead of National Childcare Scheme Tuesday 21st May 2019 The Minister for [...]

Programme Support Payment

€19m Childcare Programme Support Payments open for applications Funding will assist services ahead of National Childcare Scheme Payments to issue end [...]

Stand Alone School Age Services-registration with Tusla

All Stand-Alone School Age Services must submit an application for registration with Tusla by Saturday 18th May.

Over 800,000 children avail of first decade of free pre-school-ECCE

Latest update from the DCYA Tuesday 7 May 2019 New figures show how the Government’s free pre-school programme has transformed early [...]

NCS, ELC Capital Funding Announcement

Monday 15th April 2019 Minister announces capital funding for service providers who sign up to the National Childcare Scheme Funding will [...]

School Age Care Registration

School Age Childcare Registration On the 18th February 2019, the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) (Registration of School Age [...]

Programme Support Payment

Zappone confirms Childcare Programme Support Payments worth over €19m  Application window 13th May – 21st June 2019 Payments to issue end [...]

National Childcare Scheme

National Childcare Scheme  Minister launches the National Childcare Scheme for Ireland  Communications Campaign commences- with new website, information resources for parents [...]

Up to 1,150 free places on the LINC Higher Education Programme

Minister Zappone announces up to 1,150 free places on the Leadership for Inclusion in the Early Years (LINC) Higher Education Programme [...]

Expression of Interest for FAR Trainers

Do you operate a childcare service for school-age children?

Minister Zappone Welcomes Commencement of School Age Childcare Regulations

 Monday 18th February 2019 Regulations requiring the registration of school-age childcare services came into effect today, 18th February 2019. Childcare services [...]

DCYA Press Release

Minister Zappone announces the streamlining of existing targeted childcare schemes in preparation for the transition to the new Affordable Childcare Scheme [...]

Capital Grants 2019 Guidelines Issued

Guidelines issued for Early Learning and Care and School Age Capital fundingStatement by Minister Katherine Zappone  Thursday 31st January 2019 Guidelines [...]

Launch of the third annual report on the implementation of the actions in the National Strategy on Children and Young People’s Participation in Decision-Making, 2015-2020

Launch of the third annual report on the implementation of the actions in the National Strategy on Children and Young People’s [...]

New Registration System Brings School Age Childcare into Affordable Childcare Scheme

School age childcare services to be registered for first time with Tusla  Minister Zappone signs the Childcare Support Act 2018 (Commencement) Order [...]

Capital Grants 2019

DCYA Announcement Extra spaces and fire-safety priorities for Childcare Investment in 2019 Providers urged to prepare applications for €9m capital fund “Investment [...]

Pobals ‘Managing Better Guides’ Launched

Sean Canney T.D, Minister of State for Community Development, Natural Resources and Digital Development joined Pobal today to formally launch the [...]

Early Years Sector Profile Report 2017/2018 Launched

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr. Katherine Zappone T.D. Launches Early Years Sector Profile Report 2017/2018   Minister Katherine Zappone [...]

DCYA Newsletter for Early Years

The DCYA now have a newsletter available for Early Years. You can view this by clicking on the link below. This [...]

Government launches First 5, A Whole-of-Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families

DCYA Press Release 19th November 2018 Government launches First 5, A Whole-of-Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families The Government [...]

DCYA Press Release November 7th 2018

New Affordable Childcare Scheme to open for applications in October 2019   Existing childcare subsidy schemes to remain in place for [...]

Tusla Briefing Sessions on QRF

Throughout November and December, the Early Years Inspectorate will deliver a limited series of briefing sessions on the recently published Quality [...]

What do you need for a TEC application

DCYA Press Release-

  DCYA Press Release- Budget 2019 DCYA  Information Pack

Graduate Bursary Applications Closing Date September 28th 5pm

Minister Zappone announces supports for quality improvements in the childcare sector, including €1.2m First Aid training fund

PRESS RELEASE 5.9.2018 Minister Zappone announces supports for quality improvements in the childcare sector, including €1.2m First Aid training fund ·   [...]

CPD Week for Early Years Educators 20th-23rd August 2018

Visit our Training/Events Page for more details

Contract awarded to deliver IT system for the Affordable Childcare Scheme

Monday 9th July, 2018 On Friday, 6th July 2018 the Minister awarded a contract for the development of the IT system [...]

We are moving!!!

Longford County Childcare Committee  will be moving offices into a temporary office space this weekend. During this process we will be unavailable [...]

Programme Readiness 2018/2019

​ The re-contracting process with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) childcare funding programmes 2018/2019 will begin on Monday [...]

ECCE September 2018

We have had a lot of queries in relation to ECCE eligibility for September 2018. Have a look at the DCYA [...]

Childcare Providers urged to take part in Costs Review (DCYA)

Childcare providers urged to take part in Costs Review Vital to keep to keep to timelines for Budget talks Final Week [...]

Launch of Tusla’s Corporate Plan 2018-2020

Remarks by Minister Katherine Zappone at Launch of Tusla’s Corporate Plan 2018-2020 Royal College of Physicians of Ireland Kildare Street, Dublin [...]

Independent Review of Costs of Providing Childcare

Childcare providers are being urged to participate in an online survey as part of the Independent Review of Costs of Providing [...]

Leadership in the Early Years (LINC) Programme Now Open

The Leadership for INClusion in the Early Years (LINC) programme, is now open for applications.  Closing date for applications is Thursday,12 April 2018. If [...]

Cyber Safety for Children and Young Adults

Cyber Safety for Children and Young Adults Joint Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs Opening Statement – Minister Zappone Wednesday [...]

Learner Fund Bursary – Now Open

The Department of Children & Youth Affairs (DCYA) has opened the Learner Fund Bursary (announced early 2017) to Early Years practitioners who have [...]

Healthy Ireland Smart Start

Today four Co. Longford Early Years Services as well as one Co. Cavan Early Years Service were awarded the Healthy Ireland [...]

2018 Childcare Capital Programme application guidelines released

2018 Childcare Capital Programme application guidelines released ‘Play areas, extra places and maintenance to be supported’ Applications open 12th February – 14th [...]

Opening Statement by Minister Dr Katherine Zappone – Meeting of Joint Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs

Opening Statement by Minister Dr Katherine Zappone – Meeting of Joint Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs   *CHECK AGAINST [...]

Job opportunities at Longford CCC

Job Opportunities for Longford CCC. Please see here advert for Support and Development Officer. Please see here advert for Acting Co-Ordinator. Please [...]

Designing Accessible Childcare Centres, New Universal Design Guidance to be developed

Designing Accessible Childcare Centres New Universal Design Guidance to be developed Statement by Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine [...]

National Síolta Aistear Initiative-Update January 2018

National Síolta Aistear Initiative-Update January 2018

Momentum maintained on Affordable Childcare

Momentum maintained on Affordable Childcare Childcare Support Bill on Dáil Order Paper for Spring Legislative Programme   Tuesday 16th January 2018 [...]

Minister Zappone announces additional funding of €3.2 million for pre-school supports for children with a disability

Friday 12th January, 2018 Minister announces funding of €3.2 million for the latest addition to the suite of pre-school supports for [...]

Sign language and specialised training offered to childcare centres

Sign language and specialised training offered to childcare centres “We must make childcare accessible to all” Statement by Minister for Children [...]

Level 7 module, Supervision Theory and Practice with Sligo IT

This Level 7  module, Supervision Theory and Practice has been designed for people who supervise students  on placement from the B.A.(Hons. [...]

Early Years and SAC Capital Grants 2018 Pre-application briefing notes available now

Capital Grants 2018 Information – Pre-application briefing notes with important information in advance of the opening of applications for Early Years [...]

ECCE January Registrations

ECCE January Registrations Please be advised that the ECCE January registration window has been extended to allow Registrations be made up to [...]

PIP Announcement

Programme Support Payment (PSP), December 2017   A PSP payment has been made this week to services delivering the More Affordable [...]

Reviewing laws for children in crisis – Consultation begins

Reviewing laws for children in crisis – Consultation begins ‘Laws to be updated to reflect a quarter of a century of [...]

Childcare Support Bill published

Childcare Support Bill published Bill will underpin the new Affordable Childcare Scheme Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Dr Katherine Zappone [...]

Capital Announcement 2018

Capital 2018 Announcement Monday 4th December, 2017 The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs is delighted to announce that there will [...]

Early Years Sector Profile 2016/2017 Summary:Longford

CYPSC Mapping of Services Survey

Children and Young People’s Services Committees (CYPSC) were established across Ireland on a phased basis over a 10-year period commencing in [...]

Early Years Child Protection: 5 Steps to prepare for mandatory reporting

 

National Síolta Aistear Updates

Please read the most recent Revised NSAI Newsletter 2017 here

Celebrate Universal Children’s Day

To celebrate Universal Children’s Day (20th November 2017), the Longford Westmeath Children and Young People’s Services Committee (LW CYPSC) invite you [...]

Giving Our Children the Best Start in Life -Survey

Giving Our Children the Best Start in Life  Listening to the Views of Parents and Carers of Young Children A Survey [...]

Budget 2018 Minister Zappone announces a €73m package

   Over €40m increase in Tusla funding o    Extra money for mandatory reporting, family resource centres, out of hours supports o    [...]

Great News: Learner Fund Bursary Reopened

The Department of Children & Youth Affairs (DCYA) will re-open the Learner Fund Bursary (announced early 2017) to Early Years practitioners [...]

Beep Beep Day is Coming!

  Early Years Road Safety with Beep Beep Day   Longford County Childcare Committee continues to promote road safety with Early [...]

SUPERVISION THEORY AND PRACTICE Training with IT Sligo

SUPERVISION THEORY AND PRACTICE   This Level 7  module, Supervision Theory and Practice has been designed for people who supervise students [...]

Longford County Childcare welcomes Minister Zappone’s announcement of €1.2m capital grants for 263 providers of School Age Childcare

Longford County Childcare welcomes Minister Zappone’s announcement of €1.2m capital grants for 263 providers of School Age Childcare   Thursday 17th [...]

“Independent Review will further transform our childcare system”

Childcare Cost Review Given 10-month Deadline “Independent Review will further transform our childcare system” Statement by Minister Katherine Zappone Friday 4th [...]

More Affordable Childcare – It Starts Now

  Longford County Childcare Committee is delighted to share our locally produced video on the More Affordable Childcare Measures that will [...]

Affordable Childcare Information Sessions

Longford Childcare is delighted to be collaborating with Longford Branch-Library to inform parents of how new September measures for more affordable childcare introduced by [...]

After School Grants Announced

€54,854 funding for Afterschool Services in Co. Longford   The Department of Children and Youth Affairs has today announced funding of [...]

DCYA Programme Rules 2017/2018

DCYA Programme Rules 2017/2018 The DCYA has published a very helpful guide to all government childcare programmes for 2017/2018. This guide [...]

Longford CCC welcomes €286,943 in Funding for Early Years Services

Longford CCC welcomes €286,943 in Funding for Early Years Services Coordinator of Longford County Childcare Committee, Lorraine Farrell, was delighted to [...]

Affordable Childcare

Zappone welcomes EU recommendation in relation to early years’ care and education “Work on affordable childcare has commenced”. See the statement [...]

Longford Libraries Summer Stars

Longford Branch Libraries are running Longford Libraries Summer Stars throughout Longford county for summer. Summer Stars is a free programme open [...]

Parent and Toddler Group Grants

Longford Co. Childcare Committee Parent & Toddler Grant Initiative 2017   Applications are open for Parent & Toddler Grants.   Information [...]

Additional Funding Announced

Extra €3.5m payment announced for childcare providers Service providers who sign up to More Affordable Childcare measures from this September to [...]

Consultation Meeting

Good Morning All, The Chair of Longford County Childcare Committee, Louise Lovett, would like to extend an invitation to all owners, [...]

LINC Programme wins Award

Leadership for Inclusion (LINC) Programme Wins Best Online Learning Experience Award at the 2017 Education Awards and Up to 1,000 early [...]

DCYA Roadshows

The DCYA have announced a series of nationwide series of information sessions for childcare providers regarding the measures introduced for September [...]

Síolta

Síolta Síolta, the National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education, was developed by the Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education [...]