Clare Childminder Fears Exodus From Sector As €18,000 Funding Announced

A Clare childminder fears Government regulations will result in lots of people leaving the sector in the next year. It comes as 18 childminders in Clare have collectively received €18,000 through the 2026 Childminding Development Grant which supports the purchase of toys, childcare equipment and other essential items. Under regulations published by the Department of Children in 2024, all childminders must be registered with Tusla by 2027. Ennis-based childminder Aoife Coote doesn't expect everyone to comply with this requirement.