Another creche scandal ... but we’ve been here many times before

Another creche scandal, more public outrage — and same old replies from HSE and government.

What the Prime Time investigation has done, in disturbing detail, is remind us what we’ve known for years — the inspection and regulation of the system is not fit for purpose, training and accountability woefully lacking, proper and robust sanctions non-existent, and a political system that promises much but delivers little to reassure parents and, more importantly, ensure safe environments where children can learn and grow.

Barnardos, the ISPCC, the National Creche and Nurseries Association, and Early Childhood Ireland have been screaming for years that profit, not quality of care, is at the centre of the Irish childcare model, there is little incentive for staff to train up due to paltry wages, the department has washed its hands of the sector and inspectors need to put development at the top of their agenda.