Important changes to the Garda Vetting procedure for the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School Aged Childcare (SAC) sector came into effect in February 2025.

The new Garda Vetting system has been designed to strengthen and streamline compliance processes to improve efficiencies for everyone. The updates will affect how employers, childminders, and employees apply for or renew their Garda Vetting applications.

DCDE’s priority is to safeguard children, keeping them safe in all settings throughout Ireland. Since the 1 February 2025, the following changes came into effect:

· Early Childhood Ireland (ECI) manage Garda Vetting services for all early learning and care, and school-age childcare employees.

· Tusla manage Garda Vetting services for registered providers including Chairpersons of Boards of Management.

· As part of these changes, Barnardos no longer provide vetting services.