Vol. 536 No. 2
319 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has satisfied himself with the way in which the Southern Health Board is dealing with the needs of a person (details supplied) from Youghal, County Cork, who is in temporary foster care at present; if he has further satisfied himself that the wishes of the person are being taken into account; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14103/01]
The issue of taking children into care, and their discharge from care, is a matter for each health board under the Child Care Act, 1991. Section 39 of the Act, together with the Child Care (Placement of Children in Foster Care) Regulations, 1995, allow for the placing of a child in short, medium or long-term foster care. Pursuant to these regulations, a health board must satisfy itself that an assessment of the suitability of those persons who wish to be considered as foster carers and of their home has been carried out by an authorised person, and that those persons have received appropriate advice, guidance and training in relation to the foster care of children. In matters relating to the welfare and protection of children it is the duty of the health board to regard the welfare of the child as the first and paramount consideration and, in so far as is practicable, give due consideration, having regard to his or her age and understanding, to the wishes of the child.
The case referred to by the Deputy has been referred to the Southern Health Board, which has been requested to reply to the Deputy directly. However, the SHB has assured my Department that every reasonable effort is being made to help the child and her family to resolve their difficulties.
