Tusla is set to be given stronger powers to inspect childcare services.
Children's Minister, Roderic O'Gorman, is planning new legislation to give the child and family agency enforcement powers to deal with cases of serious non-compliance.
The move could see childcare providers shut down if they're deemed to be non-compliant.
It would also give parents more access to information in such cases.
The new laws would also propose to change the legal status of childminders, to mark the possible future regulation of the sector.
Formal regulation of childminders would allow more parents to qualify for financial assistance through the National Childcare Scheme.
