The results of 160 inspections of pre-schools and nurseries in three counties in the west suggest that many such facilities throughout the country may be failing to comply fully with care regulations.
Only 21 of the 160 inspections by the Health Service Executive (HSE) found full compliance with the pre-school child care regulations of 1996/1997.
Childcare managers say they believe facilities in the west are broadly typical of those elsewhere.
Annual inspection reports released to The Irish Times for medium to large pre-schools, nurseries, creches and playgroups in the HSE's western area show that more than 85 per cent were in breach of at least some of the statutory regulations. The regulations cover areas such as fire precautions, standards of premises and facilities, sanitary conditions, staff and pupil records, safety procedures, overcrowding, adult/child ratios and insurance.
The 160 HSE inspections of services catering for 10 or more children were carried out in counties Galway, Roscommon and Mayo over the 12-month period up to September 30th last.
Among the problems identified during the inspections were:
- Toxic or hazardous materials left within reach of children.
- Inadequate security, door and window locks leaving easy access to the road.
- Inadequate sanitary and/or nappy-changing facilities.
- Insufficient heating.
- Inadequate fire procedures.
- No outdoor play area.
Several institutions were found to be operating in unsuitable premises. However, at least two of these, Louisburgh and Swinford community playgroups in Mayo, told The Irish Times they were awaiting the necessary council site and/or funding.
The annual inspection reports were released to The Irish Times under the Freedom of Information Act.
The Government announced in the Budget that it plans to spend €575 million developing new childcare places over the next five years.