Real team effort helps to reopen IT Tallaght creche
By Aura McMenamin
The IT Tallaght crèche has officially reopened under new management, allowing parents who attend the college to avail of subsidised childcare once again.
The college announced that the crèche will be operated by Orchard House Ltd under the name Oakview Tallaght for three years.
The crèche closed last July after it was revealed that Fledglings, the childcare provider for the creche which had operated on campus for seven years, had lost the bid to tender the service.
The issue caused uncertainty for the up to 30 students who relied on the creche, as the college did not offer a date for the reopening, and sourcing alternative childcare before September became an issue for parents.
However, the creche reopened under prior management in September before transitioning under the new management over Christmas.
Teresa Ward, Manager of Academic Administration and Student Affairs at the Institute said: “This morning is the result of an exhaustive process to appoint a childcare provider and ensure the on-campus facility continues to operate in accordance with national childcare requirements.
“I want to thank everyone for their co-operation and support in getting it to this stage as it was a real team effort, I am absolutely delighted to see so many student’s children being cared for at the facility.”
The campaign to reopen the crèche and restore the jobs of 14 Fledglings staff members was led by the IT Tallaght SU.
Commenting on the crèche reopening under Oakview Tallaght, the SU said: “We welcome the opening of the on-campus creche under the new management of Orchard House Ltd for the next three years.
“This is the outcome of tireless lobbying and dedication for students by students, staff and politicians.
“This is a monumental day…this is the result of the student voice.”
In a statement announcing the reopening, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Katherine Zappone said in September: “We worked closely with the South Dublin County Childcare Committee, the management at IT Tallaght as well as the provider and Pobal to secure this solution.
“Much of this work over many weeks was carried out behind the scenes and away from the public spotlight.
“As a result, families using the services of the crèche will not only enjoy the continuation of their service but will also have access to the big improvements we are making in the whole area of childcare.”
