Dear Childminding Ireland Members,
My name is Becky Lynch, and I am delighted to introduce myself as the new Chairperson of the Board of Childminding Ireland. Many of you will already know me, but for those who don’t, I have been involved in childminding since 2017 and have served on the Board since 2021.
I took on the role of Chairperson at our Board meeting on 28th February this year, following the stepping down of our wonderful outgoing Chair, Aedin O’Toole. I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Aedin for her years of dedication and commitment to the Board and to our sector.
It is hard to believe summer is here and schools are closing. We know students, particularly those who have just finished exams will be looking forward to a well earned break.
Summer is a special time in a childminder’s home. The longer days open up a world of possibilities, trips to local parks and national nature reserves, sunny afternoons at the playground, picnics in the shade, and splashing about at the beach. For children, summer means adventure and discovery. Don’t be afraid to explore your local area with your little ones. And if you can, why not arrange a meet-up with a fellow childminder and head out together? It’s good for the children and good for you, too.
An Important Message for Every Childminder
Behind the scenes, the National Action Plan for Childminding is moving forward at a rapid pace, and it is doing so with very little input from the people it will affect most: childminders themselves and the families who depend on them.
From the end of September 2027, all childminding services must be registered with Tusla. We know that many of you have real concerns about what this means for your home, your business, and your future. Those concerns are valid, and your voice matters. It is not too late to stand up and have your say.
The Minister launched the Review of the proposed regulations on 19th June and provided the following information:
“The consultation will seek to:
- Evaluate how the regulations are operating in practice.
- Assess whether the regulatory model is appropriate and proportionate.
- Examine the effectiveness of support available to childminders.
- Identify barriers to registration and compliance.
The review will consider the experiences of childminders at all stages of engagement with the system, including those who have registered, those who are considering registration, and those who have not engaged with existing supports.
The Department will undertake an extensive programme of engagement, beginning with this open call for submissions, and followed by:
- An online survey (to open in early July)
- Regional focus groups
- Stakeholder interviews
- Case studies.
The review will be independent and will conclude before the end of 2026. Its findings will inform actions to support childminders to enter and remain in the regulated sector, including any adjustments that may be required ahead of the introduction of mandatory registration in 2027.
The Department is encouraging all childminders, parents and stakeholders to take part in the consultation –
The call for submissions is open from 19 June to 20 July 2026”.
Childminding Ireland will be in touch and supporting childminders to take part in the review to ensure that your own questions, concerns and suggestions are heard.
Join Us at Our AGM — 17 October 2026
Our Childminding Day and Childminding Irelands AGM will take place on Saturday, 17 October 2026 in Limerick. Mark it in your diary now. This is your chance to get the very latest updates on the registration process, connect with fellow childminders, and have your say about the future of childminding in Ireland.
We hope to see as many of you there as possible. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or concerns. Childminding Ireland is here for you.
With warm regards,
Becky Lynch
Chairperson, Childminding Ireland