The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland was set up in February 2001 under the Act. The regulations set down minimum standards for providers in relation to adequate space and staffing, record keeping, first aid and safety procedures, equipment and materials and insurance. Officials from the health boards carry out inspections to ensure compliance with these standards. At present, there are no minimum standards concerning the educational component of services or the training and qualifications of staff. The programme, funded through the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and delivered by Area Development Management Limited, aims to involve socially excluded parents in training, education and employment, by supporting the development of community child care facilities in disadvantaged areas.
Help is provided with capital costs.
The Department also helps national umbrella bodies involved in the child care area to expand their membership base, encourage childminders to become involved in more structured networks and promote training and standards among members. These services generally involve some early education provision. The Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs operates a number of grant schemes for community and voluntary organisations and women's groups. Some of this funding may be given to child care provision. The Department also gives funding to Family Resource Centres.