Child Care in Ireland

By: Catherine Jobe

An Overview of Ireland

Population: 7 million cows, 8 million sheep, 4 million people 1/3 of the people live in Dublin area Geography: Ireland is an island. You cannot get 150 miles from the sea. Location: 26 counties make up the republic of Ireland English is the official spoken language For decades, there has been an official push to encourage the use of the traditional Celtic language, Gaelic

Irelands Childcare Philosophy

Every child has a right to a childhood that is loving, secure and stimulating Children deserve to be highly valued for the unique contribution they make through just being children All children should be entitled to basic rights without discrimination The best interests of the child should be the primary concern of decision-making Children have the right to life, survival and development Childrens views must be taken into account in matters affecting them

Training of the Childcare Workers

Training

consists of a three year, full time program leading to a BA (Honors) in Early Childhood Education Training consists of three main components

-a theory component -a professional skills component -a supervised practice component

Availability and Accessibility

One

of the lowest rates of formal state childcare provisions supported by the government. Uses maximum private responsibility model; care is left up to the parents and women are expected to stay home with their children.

History of the Childcare system

In

1991, new childcare act passed to help alleviate pressures parents were experiencing in finding childcare. Effective because it brought attention to the need for quality care. Ultimately failed because its strict guidelines made it a more expensive endeavor.