Attempts were made within Scouting Ireland to "discredit" the work of Ian Elliott in a bid to deflect from a recommendation that senior volunteers be held accountable for their actions.

It is hoped Monday, May 18 will mark the beginning of a phased reopening of the country.

They were discovered as part of an intelligence led operation today.

Early Childhood Ireland's director of policy and advocacy, Frances Byrne has warned that if a decision is made to limit the numbers of children who can return to creches under public health guidelines, it would have a “dreadful knock-on effect” on staff retention.