A new paper on childcare policy, the first adopted by Dublin City, was presented to the Minister for Children Brian Lenihan this afternoon.
The paper, which was presented to Mr Lenihan by Lord Mayor Catherine Byrne, was produced by the Child Centred Committee in response to public concerns on the provision of childcare in the City.
The Committee consulted existing models in other European cities and was drafted in consultation with childcare providers and parents. It contains recommendations for the restructuring of the existing system.
The Minister for Children Brian Lenihan
The paper suggests that Dublin be promoted as a child-centred city by the communication of a coherent strategy for childcare to "state agencies, service providers and citizens".
It calls for a focus on facilities for children in city planning, a review of planning guidelines, and funds donated by developers to be considered for the "development or restructuring" of facilities.
The report recommends that authorities conduct a needs analysis audit to identify shortfalls in the existing system "in terms of geographical area, target groups and service types", and develop internal city council structures by, for example, employing a Childcare manager.
The development of sustainable childcare facilities to promote a variety of childcare ownership models and "clarify Lease/Licensing agreements for childcare providers operating in Dublin City Council community facilities in relation to funding applications".
Inter-agency collaboration is also advised. This would include the establishing of "structures for formal collaboration with state agencies and departments" that are potential sources of funds.
Speaking today Mayor Byrne thanked the Child Centred Committee for their contribution and hailed the policy as a "first step toward the City Council becoming a more influential player in what is a hugely important issue for every parent living and working in the city".
"We have already started to implement the Policy, with the appointment of a Childcare Manager, and I encourage the Council to continue to work towards the goal of a child centred city for the future benefit of all of us," she added.