Last Updated: 22 September 2026
Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how Early Years Ireland (“we”, “us”, “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on our website. It explains what cookies are, why we use them, and how you can control them.
We are an independent digital publication covering the early childhood education and care sector in Ireland. We are not affiliated with any representative body, trade union, or government agency.
This policy should be read alongside our [Privacy Policy], which explains how we handle personal data more broadly.
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, smartphone, tablet, or other internet-connected device) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and to provide information to website owners.
Cookies may be set by the website you are visiting (“first-party cookies”) or by third parties whose services appear on the website (“third-party cookies”).
Important: The law on cookies in Ireland comes primarily from the EU ePrivacy Directive, not the GDPR. Under this law, consent is required for most cookies — including analytics cookies — with only strictly necessary cookies exempt.3. How We Use Cookies
We use cookies for the following purposes:
- Strictly Necessary – to ensure the website functions correctly and securely
- Analytics – to understand how visitors use our website and improve our content
- Functionality – to remember your preferences and settings
We do not use cookies for targeted advertising or cross-site tracking at this time. If this changes, we will update this policy and obtain your consent.
Types of Cookies We Use
Strictly Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually set in response to actions you take, such as setting your privacy preferences or filling in forms.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
wordpress_test_cookie | Early Years Ireland | Tests whether the browser accepts cookies | Session |
wordpress_logged_in_[hash] | Early Years Ireland | Maintains your session if you log in | Session |
wp-settings-[user-id] | Early Years Ireland | Stores admin interface preferences | 1 year |
These cookies do not require consent under the ePrivacy Regulations because they are strictly necessary to provide the service you have requested.
Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website by collecting information anonymously. They help us improve our content and user experience.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
_ga | Google Analytics | Distinguishes unique users | 2 years |
_gid | Google Analytics | Distinguishes unique users | 24 hours |
_gat | Google Analytics | Throttles request rate | 1 minute |
Important: Analytics cookies require your consent under Irish law. We will not set these cookies unless you have given your consent.
Functionality Cookies
These cookies remember choices you make (such as language or region) to provide a more personalised experience.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
devicePixelRatio | Early Years Ireland | Makes the site responsive to your screen size | 1 year |
Third-Party Cookies
We may use third-party services that set their own cookies. These providers have their own privacy and cookie policies:
- Google Analytics – for website traffic analysis. [Google Privacy Policy]
- Social media platforms (if you interact with sharing buttons) – [Facebook], [X], [LinkedIn], [YouTube]
We do not control these third-party cookies. We recommend reviewing the relevant provider’s policy for more information.
How to Manage Your Cookie Preferences
Cookie Consent Banner
When you first visit our website, you will see a cookie consent banner. You can:
- Accept all cookies
- Reject non-essential cookies
- Manage your preferences (choose which categories to allow)
Important: We do not use pre-checked boxes or toggles. Your consent must be an active, affirmative choice. You can withdraw or change your consent at any time by clicking the “Cookie Settings” link in our website footer.
Browser Settings
You can also control cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to:
- View what cookies are stored and delete them individually
- Block third-party cookies
- Block cookies from specific sites
- Block all cookies
Please note that blocking all cookies may affect the functionality of this and other websites.
Links to browser instructions:
- [Google Chrome]
- [Mozilla Firefox]
- [Safari]
- [Microsoft Edge]
Consequences of Disabling Cookies
If you disable or refuse cookies:
- Some parts of the website may not function properly
- Your preferences may not be remembered
- We may not be able to analyse how the website is used, which limits our ability to improve it
Strictly necessary cookies cannot be disabled through our consent tool because they are required for the website to work.8. Children’s Privacy
Our website is intended for parents, guardians, and professionals in the early years sector. We do not knowingly collect personal data from children under the age of 16 through cookies. If you believe a child has provided us with personal data, please contact us so we can delete it.
Changes to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, law, or our practices. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date.
We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Cookie Policy or how we use cookies, please contact us:
Email: editor@earlyyearsireland.ie
For more information about cookies and your rights, you can also visit the Data Protection Commission website at www.dataprotection.ie.