The Department for Social Welfare Standards (DSWS) said today that it had investigated the concerns expressed by a number of parents regarding heat- related stress in one of its Smartkids centres.

"The Foundation for Educational Services has fully collaborated with DSWS and has taken all appropriate measures to address the situation," the department said.

It said it had consulted health authorities such as the Health Care Standards Directorate with regard to the recommended ambient temperatures. It will also be conducting inspections to monitor the ambient tempertures within the childcare centres.

From a public health point of view the recommended guidelines state that the acceptable temperature and humidity should be between 24-26 degrees C at a 50 percent maximum relative humidity.

Considering the high temperature level experienced during the summer months, it is recommended that child care centres

· make use of fans to circulate air;

· are properly ventilated to outside air;

· should encourage children to drink water more often (especially during and after play)

· ensure that the Staff in the centre frequently monitors children/babies for any signs or symptoms of a heat-related illness.

The issue was also raised by the Labour Party earlier this week.