Childminders in homes not required to register

ONLY 700 of the estimated 37,000 people who mind children in their homes are properly registered, it has emerged.

In an almost totally unregulated sector, people with criminal records could take in children and mind them in their own homes. A major initiative has been launched in Limerick to encourage childminders to gain official registration in order to assure parents of their competence and have adequate insurance cover and medical certificates.

Only persons caring for four or more children have to notify the Health Service Executive in their area and there is no garda vetting.