Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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340. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he or his Department will intervene in relation to the suspension of childcare provision at a community centre (details supplied) in which dozens of families have faced disruption to essential childcare provision; if he will contact Tusla to attempt to expedite the inspection and certification of an alternative site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46584/22]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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Firstly, let me state that I acknowledge the significant challenge that a service closure or suspension may present for the service, the local community and for parents. However, it should be noted that ELC and SAC services are provided by private enterprises, either privately owned or operated by community organisations. My Department is not involved in decisions around the day to day running of such services and any decision to close is ultimately a matter for the service provider and, in this case, the building owner. My Department cannot intervene in disputes between service providers and building owners.

I have contacted Tusla in relation to this matter. Tusla notes that it is aware of, and empathises with, the difficulties faced by the children, parents and staff as a result of the ongoing situation at this childcare service. Tusla does not have a remit to intervene in ongoing third-party disputes such as the one outlined in this case, as the statutory powers of the Agency are limited solely to the regulation of ELC and SAC services, as prescribed by legislation.

Tusla noted that this matter is currently before the courts and on this basis it would not be appropriate to provide any additional comment on this individual case, pending the outcome of these proceedings.

Tusla remains at the disposal of the service provider in this case, to assist in the progression of any matters in relation to the ongoing registration and regulation of the service in line with the relevant statutory requirements. Should the provider have any additional queries in this respect, these can be directed to Tusla’s Early Years Inspectorate either by telephone on 061 461700, or by email at ey.reception@tusla.ie.

The service provider may also wish to contact their local CCC to discuss what supports may be available to them. Contact details for the CCCs can be found on www.myccc.ie.