The National Severe Weather & Flooding Coordination Group met with key stakeholders this morning to review and prepare for the weather conditions that are predicted for Ireland over the next two days. There are two separate weather-related risks that the public needs to consider over the next 48 hours: the dangers associated with extreme high temperatures and the increased risks associated with heavy thunderstorms.

The recent high temperatures have been welcomed and enjoyed by many people; however, the public is reminded to remain vigilant in relation to the risks associated with high temperatures. Today, it is possible that parts of Ireland will experience record high temperatures, and this presents potential risks. In particular, the public is reminded to keep hydrated, stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, avoid strenuous activity and not to leave people and animals unattended in vehicles for any period of time.

Met Éireann has also identified the potential for severe thunderstorms with the possibility of torrential downpours, localised flash flooding, large hail and damaging wind gusts. This risk exists for all of Ireland, but with a higher potential for impacting on the midlands, west and north west this evening and into Friday. The public is therefore encouraged to remain weather aware and be prepared to take action if conditions deteriorate in their area.

Speaking afterwards, the Director of the National Directorate of Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM), Keith Leonard emphasised;

Severe Weather Mr Leonard added:

The main public advice if thunderstorms develop in your area is as follows

• If you hear thunder, move indoors immediately.
• If heavy rain begins, avoid driving unless necessary.
• If roads become flooded, turn around and find another route.
• Never drive, walk or cycle through floodwater. Heavy rainfall can cause dangerous flash flooding with little warning.
• If lightning develops, stop outdoor sports and seek shelter.

Forecast Conditions

Met Éireann has indicated that exceptionally warm weather is expected across Ireland for the next two days, with high daytime temperatures, warm and humid nights, and the possibility of thunderstorms.

• Daytime temperatures are expected to exceed 27°C, with values possibly reaching record highs on Thursday.
• Night-time conditions are expected to remain very mild and humid, with temperatures generally staying above 15°C.
• Thunderstorms are possible, particularly on Thursday and Friday. Thunderstorms can produce intense rainfall over a short period. This may lead to sudden surface water flooding, poor visibility and hazardous road conditions, even in areas that do not normally flood.

A yellow weather warning for high temperatures has been issued and remains in place until 09:00 Saturday, 27/06/2026.

The public should continue to check the Met Éireann website www.met.ie and app for the latest forecasts and weather warnings.

Public Health is a significant consideration during high-temperature events, and the public is advised to

• Stay in the shade and be Sunsmart
• Avoid going out or partaking in strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Apply UVA and UVB sunscreen to skin that is not covered, factor 30+ for adults and 50+ for children
• Look out for others who may be impacted by the weather conditions

The high temperatures today and this evening can be a real strain for elderly people. If you know and elderly person who is living alone, call in a check that they are comfortable and have access to cold drinks. A short visit could can make a huge difference to the well being of an elderly neighbour today

The Health Services Executive (HSE) have specific and comprehensive advice on staying safe in hot weather, and this can be accessed at the following address.

https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/procedures-guidelines/staying-safe-in-hot-weather/

Water Safety

The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, Waterways Ireland and the RNLI are urging the public to stay safe and remember that water safety is not just about swimming or water sports. It is relevant to everyday activities such as coastal walks, cycling beside canals, angling, or visiting parks and beaches with family. Drowning data shows that most accidental drownings (65%) follow land-based activities such as walking, angling, cycling, or simply spending time near the water. Now is the time for families and communities to have important conversations about staying safe near water. Awareness is a Lifesaver.

For more water safety information, contact www.watersafety.ie.

If you’re planning an activity in or on the water, remember:

• Swim at a lifeguarded waterway if possible.
• Swim where you can be seen within your depth and stay within your depth.
• Avoid entering the water in locks, marinas and harbours where hidden hazards may be present.
• Supervise Children: Never leave them unattended near water.
• Avoid Alcohol before swimming, operating watercraft or being near water, as it impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
• Be aware that cold water temperatures can also cause cold water shock, increasing the risk of drowning.
• Pay attention to all water safety signs and warnings and carry a means of calling for help.
• Check tides and updated weather warnings.
• Always wear a correctly fitting serviced lifejacket or buoyancy aid when boating or participating in water sports.
• Let others know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Water Supply

While reservoirs, rivers and groundwater sources recovered earlier this year, that does not guarantee water security for all areas in the months ahead. Water supply continues to face challenges from rising demand and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. Even where supplies are stable, a period of dry or warm weather can quickly place pressure on some areas. The public is reminded that every individual water-saving action counts, and using only what you need really helps to make a positive contribution that can benefit everyone and avoid water restrictions.

Customers can contact Uisce Éireann’s 24/7 helpdesk at 1800 278 278 or visit https://www.water.ie/

Fire Safety

A High Fire Risk warning has been issued by the Forestry Section of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This indicates that the conditions exist for wildfires in all areas where dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse exist.

The public is reminded that everybody has a part to play in protecting our unique rural landscapes, communities, habitats and forest resources from the threats posed by wildfire. If you are out and about enjoying our countryside and forests this summer, please help to reduce the risks of fire by keeping the following in mind:

• Do not light fires in or near woodland. Use only designated barbecue points where available. Thoroughly soak BBQ embers after use and make sure that they are extinguished completely.
• Do not block forest entrances or roads when parking – access may be required by the fire service or forestry personnel in the event of an emergency.
• If you see a fire, report it immediately to the emergency services – Dial 999 or 112.
• Report any illegal and suspicious activity to the Gardai. Note that the burning of growing vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August each year is prohibited by law.
• Do not approach fires or attempt to extinguish fires yourself. Wildfires can be extremely dangerous and can rapidly change direction and behaviour.

Further advice is available from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine at https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/publications/fire-management/

With the potential for thunderstorms today people should be mindful of the potential for flooding. Summer flash floods can hit in minutes and are probably the most hazardous type of flooding event. If you come across flooded road while driving, turnaround and find an alternative route. You cannot see how deep the water is and you don’t know of the road surface has been completely washed away. If you need to be rescued from a flood do not hesitate to call 999 for assistance.

The National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM) will continue to liaise with all the relevant stakeholders to monitor the weather conditions during this weather event.

Ends

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, today launched ‘Let’s Talk Childminding’, a public consultation on new childminding regulations.

The consultation forms part of the National Action Plan for Childminding 2021–2028 and begins with an open call for submissions.

This consultation will inform the review of the initial implementation of childminding regulations, introduced in September 2024. [The Child Care Act 1919 (Early Years Services) (Childminding Services) Regulations 2024.]

These regulations marked a significant step in formally recognising childminding within the wider early learning and childcare system. They enable childminders to register with Tusla and to participate in the National Childcare Scheme, providing access to financial supports for families and strengthening quality assurance for childminders, children and their parents.

There is currently a three-year transition period to September 2027, after which registration will move from being voluntary to mandatory.

Minister Foley said:

The Minister committed to bringing forward the review to this year, following feedback from childminders and representative organisations, to ensure there is sufficient time to consider any changes needed before the end of the transition period.

The consultation will seek to:

• Evaluate how the regulations are operating in practice.
• Assess whether the regulatory model is appropriate and proportionate.
• Examine the effectiveness of supportsavailable to childminders.
• Identify barriers to registration and compliance.

The review will consider the experiences of childminders at all stages of engagement with the system, including those who have registered, those who are considering registration, and those who have not engaged with existing supports.

The Department will undertake an extensive programme of engagement, beginning with this open call for submissions, and followed by:

• An online survey (to open in early July)
• Regional focus groups
• Stakeholder interviews
• Case studies.

The review will independent and will conclude before the end of 2026. Its findings will inform actions to support childminders to enter and remain in the regulated sector, including any adjustments that may be required ahead of the introduction of mandatory registration in 2027.

The Department is encouraging all childminders, parents and stakeholders to take part in the consultation –

The call for submissions is open from 19 June to 20 July 2026.

Submissions can be made by email to:
Qualitydevelopment@DCDE.gov.ie

Further information on the consultation and supporting documents is available at:

https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/consultations/lets-talk-childminding/

For further information about the National Action Plan for Childminding, see www.gov.ie/childminding

ENDS

This report provides a review of the Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative. The review was carried out by Sandra Roe Research on behalf of the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.

The Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative was first introduced under the National Childcare Investment Programme (NCIP) 2006-2010 by the then Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs and other stakeholders. Its aim was to support the growth and development of parent and toddler groups across the country. Since its introduction, the Initiative has been rolled out on an annual basis. The Grant provides funding to not-for-profit groups that involve parents/guardians taking part in community-based activities with their children.

This review was undertaken in fulfilment of a commitment set out in First 5, the Whole of Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their families. In particular, it supports Goal C of the strategy, which focuses on supporting positive play-based early learning.

The review show that the Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative is performing well. It provides strong social value at low cost and helps fund local supports that benefit families, communities and early social development.