The ISPCC is to seek the introduction of Garda vetting for those running summer camps for children.
The child protection group will be seeking the move as part of its Public Petition Campaign on Vetting, which is being launched in July.
In a statement today the ISPCC said parents should be "vigilant" and particularly careful regarding summer camps and courses their children may be taking part in.
"In general, summer camps and courses are run and supervised to a high standard," the group said. "However the ISPCC reminds parents that this area is completely unregulated and like many other areas, personnel involved in running summer camps are not subject to Garda vetting".
The statement said summer camps were generally a "positive option" for children who might otherwise become involved "in alcohol and drug usage, which can sometimes lead to other risk-taking activities" over the summer months.
"Parents should avoid seeing or utilising summer camps and courses as alternatives to child care or formal education and remember that children need the summer months to relax, enjoy themselves and re-energise for the forthcoming academic year," the statement added.
The ISPCC has produced a booklet "Have Fun and Be Safe" on the issue.
