Creche checks fall 30% in just two years

Staff cutbacks are limiting the HSE’s ability to ensure the safety of children in creches — with a near 30% slump in inspections in just two years.

Figures revealed at the latest HSE South regional health forum confirm that, since 2011, the level of checks in the sector have plummeted. Two years ago, 745 inspections took place in the area, which spans all of Munster and the South East. In 2012, the inspection rate fell to 612 — before falling even further, to 138 check-ups, in the first three months of this year.

If the January to March slump continues, a 2013 year-end rate of 552 is likely. This means there will have been a near 30% drop in the checks in just two years.