Cecilia Keaveney
Question:68 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Health the current position in relation to the provision of after hours child protection cover for children at risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4061/97]
Written Answers. - Protection of Children at Risk.
The Eastern Health Board has had a formal "out of hours" service in place since 1992. The service, which is at present provided to young people aged 12 to 17 years, ensures that social workers are in place around the clock. The board intends to extend the service to children under 12 years of age in 1997. Other health boards have varying arrangements in place to facilitate access to their services by children deemed to be at risk in emergencies.