Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 258: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the ratio of staff to child which is appropriate at the different stages of approved child care facilities. [10621/05]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and Amendment Regulations 1997, which give effect to the provisions of Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991 provide for notification to, and inspection by, health boards of pre-school services. The regulations apply to pre-schools, playgroups, day nurseries, crèches, childminders looking after more than three children and other similar services which cater for children under six years of age.

Article 7 of the regulations provides that "A person carrying on a pre-school service shall ensure that a sufficient number of competent adults are supervising the pre-school children in the service at all times." The explanatory guide which provides guidance on the regulations recommends adult child ratios as follows: