Childcare Services
Dail Éireann — 2026-10-01
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Michael Moynihan (FF), Cork North-West

I thank both Deputies for their collaboration and for raising this important issue and offering me the opportunity to respond.
The Department is aware of the decision to close the service as the university prepares to repurpose the current facility. It is acknowledged that this is a deeply stressful time for the parents, children, the staff affected and the local community. South Dublin Childcare Committee is collaborating with the private provider to review alternative premises and to secure a new location for the service. The childcare committee has continued to provide support to the provider with information on the options available. However, the Department does not directly operate or manage early learning and childcare or school age childcare services. Decisions about the day-to-day running of services, including their chosen business model or base of operations, ultimately lie with the provider.
If the provider would like to relocate, they have to apply for a change in circumstance application to be made to Tusla early years inspectorate. As part of this process, the inspectorate requests relevant statutory documentation that evidences the proposed building is safe and secure for children in the new setting. This includes, but is not limited to, fire safety certification, building regulations compliance, and other documentation required under current legislation. A fit for purpose inspection is also required once all relevant documents have been received.
Timeframes for change in circumstance applications, which are set out in regulation 8 of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016, require at least 60 days advance notification for changes to a service. This is to allow sufficient time to ensure that all providers meet the relevant statutory requirements to ensure the safety, quality of care and the support of children in these settings.
I would advise the provider in question to engage with the inspectorate directly in relation to this matter as a matter of urgency. It is hugely important both Deputies relay that to the provider. In the event that a suitable alternative location cannot be secured, the Department will continue to work closely with the South Dublin Childcare Committee to assist affected families in identifying alternative options in the area.
South Dublin County Childcare Committee can provide contact information for parents should they need help to secure alternative places. Parents and guardians can also use a website to find core funding partner services in their area. It is also important there is engagement with the inspectorate directly to process the matter and see what options are open but I take on board the concerns the Deputies have raised.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-10-01/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-10-05T01:01:00+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-10-01