Gardaí investigating Prime Time programme on creches

The Government has confirmed that a Garda investigation is now underway into last night's Prime Time investigation into childcare facilities.

The Children's Minister Frances Fitzgerald has described the footage from the three creches as "upsetting".

This afternoon 11 TD's from both Government and opposition parties called on Minister Fitzgerald to act.

She said there is now a very detailed and comprehensive Garda investigation underway.

Meanwhile, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny has said the Government will also consider withdrawing State funding from any creches found guilty of breaches of care.

He said: "The Minister for Children is going to supervise and monitor this.

"As I said in the Dáil this morning, it's not just about regulations, it's not just about inspections, it is about wuality and standards and they need to be applied on a national scale, on a national basis."