Preschools in Ireland are to be inspected in much the same way as primary schools currently are.

This is according to Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald, who has pledged a review of the professional training system for early-education practitioners after concerns were raised about preschool standards, the Irish Times reports.

It is hoped such a move will ensure training that is both affordable and accessible will be delivered by the training system.

Ms Fitzgerald noted action has already been undertaken to improve preschool staff qualifications, with one-third holding a degree-level qualification and 76 per cent having one higher than or equal to Fetac level five.

The news comes as gardai and the Health Service Executive revealed they are carrying out a joint investigation after it was alleged that children at childcare facilities in County Dublin were mistreated.

Parents of children in a north County Dublin and south County Dublin creche are believed to have made the complaints.

Written by Donal Walsh

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