Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There has been huge progress and massive change. The first point is the fact that we now have 1,672 inspections of child care facilities online. This is the first time these reports have been available online. Previously, parents or the media had to submit a freedom of information request to get access to those reviews. We also have the most recent inspection reports provided immediately online on an ongoing basis. There are now 12 of those online. That is the first major change.

The second is that we are currently discussing legislation to register services. Providers did not have to register services up to now, but we now have registration. The third change under way is that we are changing the way inspectors inspect the facilities. We will shortly publish new national standards against which the inspectors will judge the early years services. That is a major change and will be very helpful regarding the points the Deputy correctly outlines about concerns in respect of quality.

The other change under way is that the State, for the first time, is investing in quality in early years services. We are setting up a mentoring programme. There will be at least 40 mentors throughout the country who will work with the early years services to improve standards. It has been proven internationally and in Ireland, through pilot programmes, that the way to improve quality standards is not just through inspection but also through working directly with the providers in improving the quality of care they give to children. That is under way at present.

We have invested in a training programme for those who wish to increase their qualifications - from next year it will be mandatory that they have FETAC level 5 qualifications to work in this sector - to ensure the FETAC courses will be undertaken by more people.

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