Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will certainly take on board the point about the evidence in the matter of the regulations. The matter was mentioned by both Senators. I am not satisfied it is the case but if the Senators have evidence in that regard I will be glad to receive it.

My Department funds the South Dublin County Childcare Committee and I will make contact with the committee in order to see whether matters can be advanced. I take on board the point that management should be invited to engage directly with those involved and I would like to see it happening. I take on board the point made in general terms, which specifically applies in the matter of the new build, that there should be purpose-built crèche facilities in any new build. I am not in a position to give the House information on plans and specifications in developments for Tallaght Hospital but I am happy to make inquiries in that regard. I agree with the principle that there should be onsite child care facilities available in the form of a crèche in centres of employment such as Tallaght hospital. I will assist in any way, notwithstanding the fact that it is not appropriate for me to intervene in a matter that is not directly funded by, or related to, my Department.

It would not be appropriate for me to intervene in a matter that is not directly related to my Department. In the context of private or not-for-profit crèche facilities, I do not have a positive role to play in terms of interventions or mandatory decisions. Having said that, I take on board what the Senators have said and I know from representations I have received that this is a very important issue, not only in the hospital but in the community at large. I will address the points raised and communicate directly with both Senators.