Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 351: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if he will seek the introduction as a matter of urgency legislation to compel all large companies and State bodies to provide free or subsidised child care facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9607/04]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The provision of free or subsidised child care facilities by companies or State bodies is not a function of the Department of Health and Children. The role of the Department of Health and Children in relation to child care services relates to the implementation of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996, which give effect to the provisions of Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991 and provide for notification to and inspection by health boards of pre-school services. The regulations apply to pre-schools, playgroups, day nurseries, crèches, child minders looking after more than three children and other similar services which cater for children under six years of age. The purpose of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 is to secure the health, safety and welfare of pre-school children and to promote the development of children attending pre-school services.

Health boards provide financial supports to certain pre-school services which cater for children who are regarded as being at risk or disadvantaged. This function is in keeping with the boards' overall responsibilities under the Child Care Act 1991 in regard to the promotion of the welfare of children and the provision of family support services.