Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have an answer as to how many would have received State funding where no inspection has taken place as I do not have a detailed list. We will find out. The training of inspectors is under way and the Minister will deal with that.

I am concerned that the inspections taking place should not just be about the environment and checking if the lights or sockets are working. Although these are important, the most important element of all is the child, and we must consider the quality of care and the environment in which children attend a facility. That is where the focus on the quality of inspections must be centred. It needs to be far broader, more thorough and more comprehensive than what has applied in the past. The Deputy and I know that there has been no focus on those under five in this country for a very long time, but this Minister is dealing with a long set of legacy issues going back over very many years and many Governments. She is the head of the Department with a specific focus on the rights of children and facilities used by them. This programme will help to focus on the necessity to have quality at the Department's core with regard to inspections, attitude, treatment and care of children. The early years programme is an example of where high standards can apply with a seamless transfer into the formal schooling system. The matter concerns everybody and when we get the Bill through to the Government, we will ask for the co-operation of parties in helping us put it through the House.

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