Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I confirm that I am in the convention centre.

I thank the witnesses for their contributions. I wish to make a few comments. I have read the opening statement and briefing note. I have a query regarding the foundation training and the threshold at which one becomes subject to regulation. I know that there are various legislative measures dating back to 1991 and there has been an overhauling of things. At what point does one become a childminder officially subject to regulation and officially required to undertake foundation training? In every village there are people who are doing this work on an industrial scale. Some of them have gone the whole hog and have opened a full crèche. There are also other childminders who take on six or seven children. I understand what category they fall into. There is usually someone two or three doors down from your home who is excellent with children who they have minded for many years. Subjecting them to foundation training or whatever type of regulation may be coming down the line may have the unintended effect of causing some of them to exit the sector. Is there a threshold at which one is or is not a childminder in the eyes of the State? I ask Mr. Wolfe to respond.