A protest is to take place today outside one of the creches featured in an RTÉ Investigates exposé.

Suzanne Connolly said the undercover investigation into the standard of care at the Hyde and Seek Childcare creches showed a complete disregard for even minimum childcare standards.

Tusla has confirmed that the Garda Child Protection Unit at Mountjoy Garda Station has begun an investigation with the Tusla Social Work Unit, into the issues raised by the documentary.

An undercover investigation had revealed a pattern of disturbing behaviour and practices including fire-safety breaches and rough handling of children.

Childcare should be a public service for children, not somewhere to “warehouse them” while their parents are at work, the head of the Children’s Rights Alliance has urged.

Yes, you read that right.