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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 8, 15 and 30 together.

I am aware that a problem exists in respect of the sharing of student vetting information by training colleges with a third party. It is my understanding that timing issues between a student finding a placement with a service provider and the time they need to be on placement may not allow for the service provider to obtain Garda vetting on behalf of the student. Where training colleges process Garda vetting for their students and subsequently secure placement of these students in child care settings, they are not permitted under current data protection regulations to release the vetting documents or copies to the child care service. The position of the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner is that the disclosure of such information to other parties, even with the consent of the vetting subject, is not appropriate and could potentially undermine the integrity of the vetting process. Service providers cannot accept students on placement unless the full Garda vetting documentation is available to them because of the requirements of the preschool regulations. This is to ensure clear responsibility for the vetting of those working with children in this area.

I am anxious that the issue raised by the Deputy be fully examined to find a workable solution can be devised. I agree with him that a workable solution has to be found. My Department has been in touch with the Data Protection Commissioner and I am arranging an urgent meeting to discuss this and a range of issues relating to the delivery of child care services. It is important that we reach a resolution on this because, clearly, it is impacting on placements and the training of child care workers

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