Childminders will leave the sector “en masse” if regulations are introduced as planned, according to a Roscommon childminder.
The Department of Children has published the draft regulations, which are open for public consultation until May 2nd.
The department says they would provide childminders with formal recognition and will also benefit children and families using their services.
It says families would be able to get financial support under the National Childcare Scheme to pay childminders.
But Roscommon childminder Marie Gillooly says the regulations are far too stringent, unfit for purpose and should be scrapped.
Eoghan Murphy met her at her home, and she first told him about her role as a childminder.
A spokesperson for the department said childminding offers many benefits to children and parents but currently receives little formal recognition by the state.
They added: "The National Childcare Scheme (NCS), which provides financial support to families with their early learning and childcare costs, is only available to parents using a Tusla registered childminder.
"There are approximately 13,000 childminders in Ireland, minding 53,000 children. Of these only 68 are currently registered with Tulsa and subject to any official oversight. Registration with Tusla is required in order for parents to access the NCS.
"These draft regulations will enable all childminders to register with Tusla and offer the access to the NCS for the families that use their services.
"Childminding-specific regulations have been under development since 2022. Childminding Ireland representatives and childminders have advised on the development of regulations proportionate to a home based setting.
"There is also a proposed transition period of three years during which all childminders will be supported through their local City and County Childcare Committees to understand and apply the regulations.
"The consultation on the regulations is ongoing, and the Department is keen for childminders to have their say.
"The consultation page can be accessed by going to www.gov.ie/childminding and clicking on the Public Consultation on the draft childminding regulations button."
