July 25, 2019

Information for Parents and Families following RTÉ investigates

Following on from the RTÉ Investigates programme aired on 24^th July 2019,

RTÉ Investigates programme on creches in Dublin was very distressing to watch. The breaches of fire and preschool regulations were unacceptable and put babies and toddlers at risk. The treatment of some of the children was appalling and heartbreaking to watch.Parents please remember that these creches are in the minority. If you have concerns about the programme talk to your service manager and ask to see the most recent inspection reports. Call to the service unannounced at a different time of the day than your normal collection time.

To all our service providers, who provide excellent care and early years education to the children in your service, let parents know that you are happy to answer any questions they may have. Let them know that this programme is not reflective of the practice in your service. You will continue to care for their children as if they were your own. You will meet their needs as they arise and you will continue to engage with them through respectful and loving interactions.

If any of you need support after the programme please do not hesitate to contact us.

Roscommon County Childcare Committee are available to provide support and guidance to local service providers, parents and families in relation to childcare matters at local county level. The City and County Childcare Committees liaise closely with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) and other relevant stakeholders, including Tusla. Contact details for all City/County Childcare Committees can be found at www.myccc.ie

Our Childcare Committee team in County Roscommon can be contacted at: Tel: 094 9622540. Email: info@roscommonchildcare.ie Web: www.roscommonchildcare.ie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roscommonchildcare/

Any parent who has a concern in relation to the operation of an early learning and care or school age childcare service should contact Tusla through their Unsolicited Information Office as follows:

By email: early.yearsui@tusla.ie

By Phone: 061 461700

By Post: Unsolicited Information Office

Early Years Inspectorate

2^nd Floor

Estuary House

Henry Street

Limerick

An unsolicited information form is available to download on Tusla’s website https://www.tusla.ie/services/preschool-services/where-to-get-advice-if-i-have-a-difficulty-or-a-complaint-about-a-service/

Any parent who has a child protection and welfare concern should report that concern to the local social work duty service in the area in which the child lives. This contact can be made in person, by telephone or in writing. Roscommon is located in a Tusla Area comprising of Galway and Roscommon. Click on the link below for local contact details.

https://www.tusla.ie/services/child-protection-welfare/contact-a-social-worker/roscommon-duty-social-work-teams/

If we can be of further assistance please contact myself or one of our team here in Roscommon County Childcare Committee Offices

Kind Regards

Irene Cafferky

County Childcare Coordinator/Manager