Regulation 23 in Tipperary
Safeguarding Health, Safety and Welfare of Child: 54 non-compliance(s) in the latest reports we read.
An inspection records what inspectors saw on one day; services respond with corrective actions — how to read this.
16 June 2026
Lisgorm T/A Buttons And Bows Childminding Service, Templemore · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Administration of medication: 1. Signed parental consent was not obtained in respect of one child in receipt of prescription medication prior to the medication being administered to the child in the service. Signed parental consent is required to ensure the correct medication, dose, route and frequency of administration to the right child. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Administration of medication 1. Staff have been reminded to fill out medication books and ensure that all records are signed by parents at collection times. Staff have been given training on recording medical forms correctly and are aware of the requirement for parental signature. Summary Comment All evidence submitted meets the requirements of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016
11 June 2026
Sunnyside Day Care, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting for one member of staff was more than three years old and did not comply with the requirement to re-vet staff on a three-yearly basis. 2. A wooden and perspex easel in the outdoor area was broken on one side which meant it was no longer able to stand. This piece of equipment was heavy and was leaning against one of the playhouses. It was a potential risk of injury to the children if one got behind it and pushed it over. 3. There was a hose pipe protruding from the ground in a section of the outdoor play area. This posed a potential hazard to the children. 4. The soft fall mats used in a section of the outdoor play area were not all laid edge to edge causing a potential tripping hazard. Infection control: 5. There were holes in the doors in the sanitary accommodation area left by the removal of previous handles. This meant the chipboard interior of the doors was exposed to dirt and moisture and could not be effectively cleaned. 6. The liquid soap dispenser in one of the children’s sanitary accommodation areas was stored on top of the electric hand drier where it was inaccessible to the children. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1.The staff member's Garda Vetting renewal process was initiated immediately following the inspection. A review of all staff Garda Vetting records was completed. A Garda Vetting monitoring system has been implemented, including a vetting register with renewal dates and reminders six months prior to expiry. The person in charge will review the register monthly to ensure all Garda Vetting is renewed before the three-year deadline 2. The broken easel was removed from the outdoor play area immediately following the inspection to eliminate any potential risk to children. It has been disposed of. Outdoor equipment will be inspected daily before children access the outdoor area and formally recorded as part of the service's health and safety checks. Any damaged equipment will be removed from use immediately until repaired or replaced. Staff have been reminded of their responsibility to report hazards promptly 3. The pipe in question is a water pipe and cannot be removed. Daily outdoor safety inspections have been strengthened to identify and address hazards before children access the outdoor environment. The outdoor area will also be included in the monthly health and safety audit to ensure it remains free from trip hazards. 4. The soft fall mats were repositioned immediately so they are securely laid edge to edge, removing the potential tripping hazard. Staff will inspect the positioning of soft fall mats during the daily outdoor safety check and reposition them as required. The condition and placement of the mats will also be reviewed as part of the monthly health and safety audit. Infection control: 5. The holes were filled. This ensures all surfaces are smooth, washable and suitable for effective cleaning. Any damage affecting infection prevention and control will be recorded, risk assessed and repaired promptly. Monthly environmental audits will monitor compliance 6. The liquid soap dispenser was relocated immediately to an accessible height beside the sink, ensuring children can independently wash their hands as required. Staff have been reminded of the importance of ensuring handwashing facilities remain accessible to children at all times. Daily room checks will include verifying that soap, paper towels and handwashing facilities are fully stocked, functioning and accessible. This will be monitored through regular infection prevention audits
10 June 2026
Naionra Lus na Greine, Tiobraid Arann · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting has been applied for one staff member. Reminders for renewal of Garda vetting have been set for going forward
8 June 2026
Sugradh Creche, Carrick-On-Suir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. There were loose blind cords on the windows in the Montessori 2 room, Wobbler 1 room and Wobbler 2 room which posed a risk to children. Infection control: 2. There was no warm running water present in the service to support hygienic hand-washing. 3. There was exposed timber on the side of the staff station in Toddler 1. This posed a risk of cross contamination. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. All blind cords have been secured. Weekly safety checks of the building will be carried out by the health and safety officer. Infection control: 2. A new immersion has been installed to heat the water. Water is checked daily by staff. 3. Exposed timber has been covered with a laminate strip. Weekly safety checks of the building will be carried out by the health and safety officer
3 June 2026
Croíthe Beaga, Carrick-On-Suir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting was available for four staff members. However, one vetting disclosure was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’ Infection control: 2. The pedal operated waste bin in the care room was broken and children were observed handling the lid of the bin to open it. This poses a risk of cross infection to the children. 3. On the day of inspection, children’s perishable snacks were observed to be stored in their bags on hooks on the wall. On discussion with a staff member, snacks are not refrigerated in the service. This posed a risk of food spoilage. Fire safety: 4. The inspector noted that one of the fire exit doors was partially obstructed by plastic chairs indoors and a timber sandbox outdoors. This increased the risk of children not being able to make a timely exit in the event of a fire. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following response was received from the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. The staff member is no longer employed in the service. Staff files will be checked quarterly and a checklist kept. Infection control: 2.The bin was removed and the proposed new registered provider has been made aware of the need to purchase a pedal operated bin. 3. A large fridge is to be purchased by the proposed new registered provider. Fire safety: 4. The sand pit has been removed from the outdoor area. The proposed new registered provider has been advised where to place new equipment
28 May 2026
The Owl and The Pussycat Day Care and Afterschool Club, Ballina · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting disclosures for two staff members were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Infection control: 2. Waterproof mattress covers were not available on two of the seven cot mattresses in the sleep room. 3. A bottle maker was being used in the Baby room to heat and measure water to make up infant formula for two of the babies attending the service. The use of these machines is not permitted in childcare services as there is not enough research to show these machines are safe and effective for preparing babies bottles. It is recommended that infant formula be reconstituted at home and brought into the service in cooler bags then stored in the fridge until required, in line with best practice guidelines. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting renewals were received and sent on to inspector following the inspection. The service will apply for re-vetting three months in advance of it being due to ensure it is returned within the three-year timeframe. Infection control: 2. New waterproof mattress covers have been ordered for the cot mattresses. 3. The bottle maker was removed from use on the day of the inspection
27 April 2026
Scallywags Pre School, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: A Garda vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: A copy of the confirmation of the submission of renewal was sent to the Early Years Inspector
15 April 2026
Nicoles Country Childcare Limited, Roscrea · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting disclosures for one member of staff was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting reapplied for and received. Review of Garda vetting for staff will be carried out on the 1st week of January every year and re-applied for within a three year period. Summary Comment All evidence submitted meets the requirements of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016
8 April 2026
Brightsparks Childcare, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: Garda vetting disclosures for two staff members were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: Both Garda vetting’s had been applied for in relation to the two staff members but not yet received back from the Garda Vetting Bureau by the service
2 April 2026
Muddy Puddles Country Childcare, Borrisoleigh · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: 1. The children in the pre-school room did not wash their hands before eating their lunch. Regular hand washing is required at appropriate times during the day such as before eating to reduce the risk of children or staff acquiring illnesses through cross contamination. 2. Bins without lids and bins that were not ‘hands free’ or pedal operated were observed in the rooms throughout the service. Pedal-operated, lidded bins are required to be used in the service for the safe storage of rubbish or waste before it is removed from the rooms. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection control: 1. Regular hand washing now takes place throughout the day. 2. New pedal operated bins are now installed throughout the service
30 March 2026
Knockanrawley Childcare, Tipperary Town · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting renewal for one staff member had been applied for prior to inspection. Copy of application was observed by the Early Years Inspector
26 March 2026
Drangan Cloneen Community Playgroup, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting for the expired staff member was applied for and received
24 March 2026
Busy Bodies Montessori School, Roscrea · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting for the registered provider and one member of staff was more than three years old and required to be renewed. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting has been applied for in respect of the registered provider and staff member whose vetting was more than three years old. The service will keep a check on dates to make sure all vetting is renewed within a three year cycle
9 March 2026
Montessori Naionra, Cahir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. The main entrance door remained unsecured while the service was in operation, allowing the public access to the staff storage area and staff toilet. It is acknowledged that the care room is locked. On discussion with the registered provider, the door remains open to allow parents access to knock on the care room door and have access to the sanitary facilities. This unrestricted access to the building may cause a risk of unauthorised access to the service. This was evident on the last inspection 9 June 2023, where both doors were unsecured and the registered provider stated the deputy will be responsible for ensuring the premises is secure. The corrective actions submitted following this inspection failed to prevent recurrence of this non-compliance. Infection control: 2. Contrary to the service’s infection control policy perishable food was not stored in the fridge in the service. At snack time the inspector observed children removing perishable food from their bags which poses a risk of food spoilage. 3. Handwashing practices were inadequate to control the spread of infection. Children did not wash their hands before eating their snack or after outdoor play. 4. Children’s school bags were stored stacked along the ground which increased the risk of cross contamination. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following response was received from the registered provider in CAPA and email format:
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. The outside door will remain closed. Checking of this will be part of the daily risk assessment. The outer and inner door will not be key locked. A wireless motion sensor will be fitted to both doors. These are planned to be installed on the 1 May 2026. Infection control: 2. Children put their lunch boxes in the fridge in the morning and retrieve them for snack. A policy is in place to ensure this and will be shared with new staff on induction. 3. The handwashing policy was reviewed and staff were reminded to follow the handwashing policy before snack and after outdoor play. All new staff will be informed of this. Visual aids were put in place. 4. Bags are kept on hooks. Staff will support children to retrieve them. Staff will be reminded to hang all the bags on hooks. New staff will be trained on this
3 March 2026
Little Einstein’s Preschool & Afterschool, Roscrea · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Safe sleep: A member of staff does not stay in the sleep room with the children while they sleep. As the children sleep on camp beds, from which they can get up and wander around once awake, it is required that the children be supervised by direct observation from a member of staff while they sleep. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Safe sleep: The service will ensure one staff member remains in the sleep room with the sleeping children at all times. The service are confident that leaving a staff member stay with the sleeping children will remedy the issue found and prevent reoccurrence. Summary Comment All evidence submitted meets the requirements of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016
2 March 2026
Kids Cahir Preschool, Cahir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. An Immediate Action Notice was issued to the person in charge as five blind cords on roller blinds covering shelving were accessible to children in the care room and were not in restrictive devices. This was identified as posing a potential safety risk. 2. Garda vetting was available for 14 adults; however, 1 vetting disclosure was not dated within the previous three years in adherence with the Early Years Inspector Regulatory Notice ‘EUI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting’. Infection control: 3. The inspector noted that the two bins used for the purpose of waste disposal in the care room were not pedal operated. This increased the risk of cross infection and contamination. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was received from the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. Cords were removed from all the blinds. Blinds purchased in the future will have the cords removed. 2. Garda vetting has been applied for. Garda vetting will be renewed as needed for all employees. Infection control: 3. Pedal bins were purchased for preschool. The service will ensure pedal bins are purchased as needed in the future
24 February 2026
Bright Beginnings, Cashel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety, and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. There was a loose blind cord on one of the windows in the sleep room which posed a risk to children. Infection control: 2. The vinyl on one of the nappy changing mats was split. This posed a risk of cross contamination due to not being able to be cleaned properly. 3. There was exposed timber on one of the sets of children’s steps in the nappy changing room. This posed a risk of cross contamination due to not being able to be cleaned properly. 4. There were three open jars of barrier cream in the ‘creams’ drawer in the nappy changing area. The creams were not labelled with the name of the child on whom they were to be used or marked with the date they were opened. Creams should be labelled with the name of the child to prevent cross contamination and marked with the date the jar was opened to avoid using creams past their opened shelf-life. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. Blind cord has been secured. Infection control: 2. Vinyl on changing matt has been replaced. 3. The steps in the nappy changing room have been painted. 4. All creams have been labelled for individual children. Regular maintenance and upkeep checks now in place
9 February 2026
Clonmel Childcare, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Unsecure shelved units were observed in the Wobbler, Toddler 2 and Toddler 3 rooms. An unsecured child’s toy work bench was also observed in the Wobbler room where a child knocked this over. This posed a risk of injury if the shelving or workbench were to fall over onto a child. 2. A cabinet with unsafe items was noted in the following rooms: • Bottles of medicine, an aerosol bottle and a lighter were easily accessible to the children in the Butterfly room. When brought to the attention of the staff in the care room, the unsafe items were removed from the cabinet. This posed a safety risk to the children. 3. Five bottles of temperature reducing medicine was found to have expired in the Butterfly room. This posed a safety risk to the children in the event of this medicine requiring to be administered to a child. Infection Control: 4. During a number of observed nappy changes, the following practices were observed which posed a risk of cross contamination and infection and were not in line with the services nappy changing policy. • Disposable aprons worn by staff were not changed between each child’s nappy change. In discussion with the inspector one staff member was not aware of the need to change apron at each nappy change. • Adequate handwashing procedures were not adhered to by the staff member after each nappy change where both staff and children’s hands were not washed. 5. Handwashing practices were inadequate to control the spread of infection in the following areas: • Staff did not wash their hands after wiping two children’s noses in the Toddler 1 room. • Children were not brought to wash their hands before eating their dinner in the Toddler 1 room. • No liquid soap was available in the nappy changing sink area in Toddler 1 room. 6. On the day if inspection, the inspector observed both Toddler 1 room and Toddler 2 room sharing the nappy changing unit in Toddler 1 area. On the day of inspection, 18 children were using the nappy changing unit in Toddler 1 room. While it is acknowledged that Toddler 2 room had a fold down nappy changing unit in the sanitary area in their room, the staff informed the inspector that they do not use this and use the nappy changing area in Toddler 1 room. One nappy changing area is required to be used for a maximum of 11 children. Overuse of the nappy changing area increases the chance of cross infection. 7. In the sanitary area in the Butterfly room, a bin used for disposing paper towels was missing a lid and was not foot pedal operated. A swing lidded bin was observed in the sanitary area in the Bumblebee room. This posed a risk of cross infection to the children. 8. The surface around the back of a toilet in the Butterfly room was observed to have exposed timber. This posed a risk to the children as the area could not be effectively cleaned and posed a risk of cross infection. Safe sleep: 9. On the day of inspection eight children under two years of age in the Toddler 1 room were sleeping on floor beds. While it is acknowledged that the service discussed this with parents, no individual sleep plan signed by a parent were available for these eight children. An individual sleep plan is required for any child under the age of two who no longer sleeps in a cot. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was made by the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. The shelving is now secured to the wall and any movable heavy furniture will be secured in the future. 2. A lock for the cabinet in the Butterfly room was purchased and the service will ensure this is in place on the cabinet. 3. The bottles of expired medicine have been discarded and a new check sheet is in place to monitor expiry dates. Infection control: 4. The service will communicate with the staff regarding the policy and procedure for nappy changing and hand washing. Signage has been put in place. 5. Soap was re stocked in the bathroom and will be kept replenished. 6. The nappy changing area in the toddler room is now used. 7. New bins have been purchased. The service will ensure the use of food pedal operated bins in the future. 8. The area behind the toilet is now repaired and cleaned. The service will ensure any required maintenance are reported to the management. Safe sleep: 9. Sleep plans are now completed with all children under 2 years of age on floor beds. In the future sleep plans will be completed in consultation with parents before a floor bed is used
29 January 2026
Templemore Community Pre School, Templemore · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting had not been renewed in respect of the registered provider, in compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice, requiring services to renew Garda vetting every three years. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: The person in charge created an account on the Tusla vetting portal immediately. Application was submitted with required documents and documents were posted to Tusla office. Documents were accepted and link for vetting received by registered provider. The person in charge has taken on the role of applying for Garda Vetting of registered provider
20 January 2026
Kilcash Pre-School, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: On the day of inspection, the staff toilet was observed to be used as a storage area for a television. This posed an infection control risk. This was found on the previous inspection on 26 September 2023 and the corrective action stated that the manager would ensure that no material is stored in the toilet cubicles, however this remains an issue. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was received from the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection control: The television has now been removed. All staff are now aware of the infection control risk and toilets will no longer be used for storage
12 January 2026
Busy Bees Pre-School, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting was applied for the staff member. Policies have been updated to ensure regular review of Garda vetting
7 January 2026
Step Ahead Creche, Newport · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting was applied for the staff members whose vetting was out of date
10 December 2025
Dualla Village Preschool, Cashel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: A renewal of Garda Vetting has been applied for one staff member. Going forward a checklist will be in place to ensure that all staff have the correct vetting and required information when returning or beginning a new role to avoid any future compliance issues
5 December 2025
Wonder Years Playschool, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. The inspector noted a fire exit door, located in the children’s sanitary facilities had a push bar opening mechanism at a child’s height. On opening, this door led out to a school yard with an open gate with access to the road. This posed a risk of unsupervised exit of a child. Infection control: 2. On the day of inspection, children’s perishable snacks were observed to be stored in their bags on hooks on the wall. A refrigerator was available in the care room but was not in used by the children on the day. This posed a risk of food spoilage. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was received from the registered provider: General safety: 1. An alarm was installed on the fire door. The staff will be alerted if this door is opened. Infection control: 2. Children’s perishable foods are now stored in the refrigerator. The policy is also updated to state this. Supporting documentation submitted General safety: 1. Photo of the alarm installed. Infection control: 2. The statement from the registered provider is accepted. Summary Comment The actions taken by the registered provider have addressed the non-compliances identified under Regulation 23
2 December 2025
Thurles Targeted Early Intervention Service, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting renewal applied for and received
1 December 2025
Fethard Community Playgroup, Fethard · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: 1. The inspector noted that bins in the care room were not pedal operated. One child was observed to touch the top of the bin when disposing of waste. This increased the risk of cross infection and contamination. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following response was received from the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection control: The non pedal operated bins have been removed and replaced with foot pedal operated bins
4 November 2025
Lisgorm Services LTD TA Upperchurch Childcare Centre, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for three staff members were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting had been reapplied for two of the staff members prior to inspection but had not been received back by the service. Garda vetting for one staff member has been applied for following the inspection. A new filing system has been implemented to ensure that vetting is completed on time. Calander reminders have also been set for Garda vetting reapplication dates
3 November 2025
Rosegreen Rascals Limited, Cashel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. There were unanchored shelving units in the care room. These were accessible to the children posing a safety risk to the children should they fall over on top of a child. Infection control: 2. On the day of inspection, children’s perishable food was observed to be stored in their bags. A refrigerator was available in the care room but was not in use by the children on the day. This posed a risk of food spoilage. 3. The inspector noted that the bin used in the children’s toilets was not pedal operated. A child was observed touching the lid to open it after handwashing. This increased the risk of cross infection and contamination. 4. The inspector observed a staff member assist a child to wipe their nose and disposed of the tissue without washing her hand afterwards. This poses a risk of cross contamination and infection. 5. The inspector noted that the children’s bags were stored on the ground in the care room. This poses an infection control risk. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was received from the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. All shelving has now been anchored. Infection control: 2. Children’s perishable foods are stored in the refrigerator. One staff member will place the food in the refrigerator on a daily basis. 3. The bins used in the children’s toilets are pedal operated. 4. A staff meeting was held. Staff are aware of the importance of good respiratory hygiene practices. Policies will be reviewed and good respiratory hygiene practices will be promoted. 5. The children’s bags are now stored on shelves
13 October 2025
Cahir Bears Childcare Centre, Cahir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. One child was prescribed emergency medication with no care plan in place and the person in charge informed the inspector that no staff member had been trained in the administration of this medication if it was needed. This posed a risk to the safety of the child, should it be required and was not in line with the services medication administration policy. 2. No visibility stickers were noted to be available on the glass panels at the children’s height in the Toddler and the preschool rooms. This posed a risk to the children of injury. 3. The inspector observed children in Preschool 2 room using shaving foam as a play material. This poses a safety risk to the children. 4. The temperature of the hot water was recorded above the appropriate range of 43°C in two areas. Water temperatures of 45.2°C were recorded in the nappy changing room between the Toddler and Playschool room and water temperature of 46°C were recorded in Preschool 1 room. This posed a risk of scalding to a child. Infection control: 5. During three observed nappy changing procedures, the following practices were noted in one or more of the changes which posed a risk of contamination and cross infection and was not in line with the services nappy changing policy. • The child’s or adult’s hands were not washed after nappy change. • A staff member touched the lid of the bin with gloves during a nappy change and proceeded to continue with the nappy change with the same gloves in place. 6. On the day of inspection, 19 children in Toddler room and Playschool room shared one nappy changing unit. One nappy changing unit is required for every 11 children. This overuse of a nappy changing unit increases the risk of cross infection. 7. The inspector noted that bins used in the service were not pedal operated. This increased the risk of cross infection and contamination. 8. The inspector noted three outdoor sand pits had no covers available and remained open when the service was closed. This posed a risk of contamination and infection to the children. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was received from the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. Staff have been trained in the use of this emergency medication and a care plan has been completed with information received from the GP. The services admission policy has been reviewed. The service will ensure that when future children are prescribed medication, Staff will be trained, a care plan completed and information is received from the GP. 2.Visibitity stickers were purchased and were placed on the windows. The service will ensure that visibility stickers are kept on all low windows. 3. Staff meeting was held, and staff were advised that shaving foam is no longer used as a play material. 4. Management in the service contacted a plumber the day of inspection and the temperature was lowered the following morning. Water temperatures will be checked on a daily basis. Infection control: 5. A staff meeting was held. The nappy changing policy was discussed and staff were reminded of the importance of hand washing. 6. Children from the Toddler room are now using the nappy changing area in the baby room until such time as toilet training is completed. 7. Pedal operated bins have been purchased for all the care rooms and management will ensure that pedal operated bins are used in the service. 8. The sandpits have been removed and replaced with small tabletop sandpits. The larger sandpit has a cover in place and will be covered when the service is not in operation
6 October 2025
Mullinahone Community Playgroup, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: 1. Perishable foods were not stored in a fridge. This caused a risk of food spoilage and food borne illnesses. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection control: Each morning the children’s perishable foods are placed in the fridge
29 September 2025
Cashel Pre-School Playgroup, Cashel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Fire safety: The locking mechanism on the labelled fire exit doors was identified as posing a potential safety risk and a referral was made to the fire officer. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was made by the proposed registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- The locking mechanism has been changed. The service has introduced a safety inspection and annual fire safety audit
23 September 2025
Little Owl's Naionra and Clubhouse, Ballina · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: 1. There was no hot water available on the day of inspection. The service manager explained that the timer may have been knocked out by a recent power cut and would investigate same. 2. The chairs used by the children which had metal legs and moulded seats of textured hard plastic were marked with ingrained dirt and needed deep cleaning. It is acknowledged that following the inspection the chairs were power washed and a photo of the clean chairs was sent to the inspector on 2 October 2025. Administration of medication: 3. There were two auto-injector pens available for use on one of the children in the event of an allergic reaction. Signed parental consent to administer the medication or a care plan detailing how to manage this child in the event of an allergic reaction, were not available. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection control: 1. A new emersion was installed to ensure hot water will be available when needed. 2. All chairs were power-washed and photos sent to inspector. The chairs will be maintained to the standard required. Administration of medication: 3. A new care plan is in place for any child entering the building who needs one and forms are all signed by parents. The care plans and medication forms will be checked weekly
22 September 2025
Little Scholars Carrick Playschool Ltd, Carrick-On-Suir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: On the day of inspection, the staff toilet was observed to be used as a storage area and contained children’s toys not in use, plastic plates and a jug. This posed an infection control risk. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection control: The items have been removed from the bathroom area. There is a plan for a carpenter to partition off an area for storage
16 September 2025
Martha’s Montessori, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Fire safety: An Immediate Action Notice was issued to the person in charge as two fire exit doors were locked with keys on the day of inspection. It is acknowledged that the key was on one door. These locking mechanisms posed a potential safety risk and a referral was made to the fire officer. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was received from the registered provider:
Provider's corrective action:
- Fire safety: A thumb twist lock has been fitted. The service is awaiting a meeting with the fire officer
23 July 2025
Gort na nOg Childcare Centre, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Fire safety: The fire exit doors in the Baby room and the current sleep room were obstructed by furniture and equipment which included a play kitchen, child sized chair and electric fan. This posed a safety risk to the children and staff as their exit may be impeded in the event of an emergency. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Fire safety: Doorway has been cleared and management and staff are more mindful that the emergency needs to be kept clear at all times
15 July 2025
Laochra Beaga, Newport · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting for three members of staff was last re-done in 2019, which is outside the required interval of three years. It is acknowledged that following the inspection the service applied for and received updated garda vetting in respect of the three members of staff. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: The Garda vetting was applied for and received. The service have created a master list of when all staff members vetting is due for renewal so it can be reapplied for in a timely manner
9 July 2025
Treasure Island Childcare Ltd, Carrick-On-Suir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: 1. During four observed nappy changing procedures, the following practices were noted in one or more of the changes which posed a risk of contamination and cross infection and was not in line with the services nappy changing policy. • The nappy changing area was not adequately cleaned between use. • The child’s or adult’s hands were not washed after nappy change. • The staff member removed gloves and proceeded to handle two door handles with unwashed hands to exit the changing room and enter the care room. Fire safety: 2. The locking mechanism on the fire exit doors was identified as posing a potential safety risk and a referral was made to the fire officer. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following statement was received from the designated person in charge:
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection control: 1. Staff reviewed the steps involved in the nappy changing procedure and the designated person in charge plans to complete random checks to ensure this is adhered to. Fire safety: 2. The service has liaised with Tipperary County Council fire officer, and a date has been obtained for completing the required work for fire safety. The fire officer is to return to the service to review the completed work
2 July 2025
Stepping Stones Creche & Montessori, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Safe sleep: 1. The air temperature of the Toddler room which was used for sleep was recorded at 24.5°C while six children aged between 21 months and 2 years 6 months were sleeping. This exceeds the recommended temperature range of 18°C to 22°C for children of this age. It is acknowledged that staff had opened the windows and double doors, and an air purifier fan was in use but temperatures were unable to be reduced to below 23.3°C. 2. One child under the age of two was observed to be sleeping on a stackable bed in the Toddler room. The services sleep policy states all children under two years have access to a cot. Tusla Guidance for the Early Learning and care sector on sleep position for children under 24 months states that the use of floor mats or stackable beds for children aged under 24 months are not sufficiently conductive to sleep for children in this age range. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Safe sleep: 1. The service purchased a portable air conditioner unit to lower the room temperature in warm weather. The service will monitor room temperatures at sleep times and during hot weather to ensure they are at a safe level for all children. 2. A floor bed has been provided. The service purchased an appropriate bed for children under the age of 2 years for use in the future and plan to use the Tusla care plan template in partnership with the parent
1 July 2025
Little Scholars Montessori School, Nenagh · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. The garda vetting for two members of staff was last done in 2021 which exceeded the three-year renewal requirements of Tusla. The service did not have a system in place to ensure that garda vetting was renewed on a three-yearly basis
Provider's corrective action:
- The two staff members have obtained Garda vetted. The service has now reviewed all Garda vetting from staff and have written down the dates they expire and when they need to be re-vetted
16 June 2025
Tiny Tots Pre-School, Cahir · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for two staff members were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’ Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting was applied for the two staff members
3 June 2025
Little Orchard Childcare, Tipperary Town · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. There was a loose blind cord on one of the sleep rooms windows which posed a safety risk to children. Infection control: 2. Foot operated pedal bins were not accessible in all rooms of the service to reduce the risk of cross infection. 3. The paper towels in some hand washing areas were loose and not placed in the dispenser. This was a risk of cross contamination. There were no paper towels in one hand washing area. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. Blind cord was fixed to the wall. Infection control: 2. Foot operated bins have been placed in all rooms. 3. Paper towels have been placed in the dispensers and are checked each morning
7 May 2025
Spraoi Playschool, Tipperary Town · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting disclosures for two staff members were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: Renewed Garda vetting was applied for both staff members
9 April 2025
Jigsaw Day Nursery Ltd, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. A Garda vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garada vetting for one staff member has been reapplied for
27 March 2025
The Old School House Montessori, Thurles · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting for four of the five members of staff was carried out longer than three years ago. Re-vetting of staff is required to be carried out on a three-yearly basis. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: Garda vetting renewal was applied for in respect of the four staff whose vetting was out of date
25 March 2025
Clever Clogs Community Childcare, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. Garda vetting disclosures for three staff members were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: Garda vetting for the three staff members was renewed. Management will make sure that all Garda vetting must be applied for within 2-3 months before the expiry date
17 February 2025
Tots 2 Teens, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: 1. The water temperature at the hand washing sinks increased as the day went on. The water was tepid in the morning but had risen to 45⁰C by 1pm. This was greater than 43⁰C, the maximum temperature recommended to prevent a child from a scalding injury. On discussion with the service manager, it was discovered that the thermostats had been turned off as they weren’t working effectively. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. The service manager contacted the inspectors following the inspection to inform them that the hot water to the sinks that the children had access to would be turned off until such time as they could regulate the temperature effectively
10 February 2025
Little Treasures Creche New Inn Ltd, Cashel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection control: Infection control risk was identified in toddler room. 1. The foam on the couches in the toddler room was exposed. This posed a risk of infection control. Infection control risk identified within the sanitary areas: 2. The toilet rolls in the bathrooms were loose and not placed on a toilet roll dispenser. This is a risk of cross contamination. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection Control: 1. The couches in the toddler room have been replaced with a new one. Awaiting covers to be made for the others. 2. The toilet roll dispensers have been taken down and replaced by new toilet roll holders in each toilet cubicle
6 February 2025
Little Learners, Roscrea · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Administration of medication: Signed parental consent was not sought for medications, other than anti-pyretic medication, prior to their administration. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- We have complied a new form to capture all the necessary information and consent from the parents before any medication is given. Parents have all been emailed the form and made aware that they need to give themselves an extra five minutes on the morning they are dropping their child if they require medicine. All staff are aware of the new form and are now using it for any medications that have been given
29 January 2025
Caterpillars Childcare (Newport), Newport · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: The following was observed on the day of inspection which may pose a risk to the health, safety and welfare of the children: 1. There were three space saver cots in use in the sleep room. On request from the inspector, the registered provider checked the manufacturer’s instructions as to the age range recommended to use these cots, which was 0 – 12 months old. As all of the children currently using the cots for sleep time were aged 12 – 18 months old, these cots were not suitable for use. It is acknowledged that the registered provider has stated that the cots have since been removed and replaced by standard cots. 2. There was a baby walker in use in the baby room on the morning of the inspection. This piece of equipment is not allowed to be used in early years settings due to the potential risk of injury they pose to children. It is acknowledged that the baby walker was removed from the service immediately after the inspector identified it as a risk. Infection Control: 3. The cots in the sleep room were positioned in a manner that meant many of the cots were directly adjacent to at least one other cot. This was at variance to infection control requirements which state that cots or sleep mats must be separated by a gap of at least 50cm. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: 1. Per the inspection report the 0 to 12 month cots have been removed and replaced by standard cots. One white cot will remain in the room for a baby who is under 12 months of age. The service will monitor to ensure as children turn 12 months that they are placed in a cot for children from 12 months of age upwards and that white cots will only be used for children under 12 months of age. 2. The baby walker was removed from the baby room immediately. Infection control: 3. The existing space between the cots has been increased to 50cm
16 December 2024
Laochra Beaga, Roscrea · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection Control: A number of practices observed during the inspection did not support effective infection prevention and control: 1. Children did not wash their hands before eating or on returning inside from outdoor play. 2. The tables, which were used for multiple purposes including table-top activities, messy play activities and dining, were not wiped down between uses, in particular the tables were not wiped down to prepare them for snack time. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection Control: All staff have been spoken to on the non-compliance and have been reminded the importance of infection control. 1. Although sanitiser has always been used on entering the setting and before snack etc physical hand washing has now been built into the daily routine before snack and on re-entering the class room from outdoor play. 2. The daily cleaning schedule has been updated, and table washing has been added more frequently to remind staff of the necessity and importance of keeping tables clean
4 December 2024
Play and Learn Creche and Montessori, Clonmel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: 1. Garda vetting disclosures for seven staff members were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: New Garda vetting disclosures were applied for in respect to the seven staff members whose vetting had not been dated in the previous three years
6 November 2024
Little Rascal Clonoulty, Cashel · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General safety: Garda vetting disclosures for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General safety: An application for a new Garda vetting has been submitted. All deadline/expiration dates for Garda vetting and certificates are now recorded in a work calendar
14 August 2024
Ladybird's Pre-school Newtown, Nenagh · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: Garda vetting for one member of staff was dated 10 May 2021, which was more than three years ago. It is required that all staff be re-vetted on a three-yearly basis. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: Updated Garda vetting has been received in respect of the member of staff. For the future Garda vetting for staff members will be reapplied for in the right timeframe
14 May 2024
Ladybird's Pre-School and Childcare Centre, Nenagh · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: The service kept a supply of sunscreen for use on children who did not have their own supply so that children could access outdoor play safely. The service did not have written consent from parents to apply this sunscreen on children attending the service. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: A new sun policy has been developed and was issued to all families. The new policy will be adhered to at all times