Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Feb 2002

Vol. 547 No. 4

Written Answers. - Child Abuse.

Alan Shatter

Question:

205 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science if a North-South child protection working group has been established to consider the issue of child abuse; if so, the terms of reference of the group; the work being undertaken by the group; and the names of those appointed to the group. [3824/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

A working group to consider the issue of child protection has been established under the auspices of the North-South Ministerial Council, education sector.

The terms of reference of the group are: to develop proposals, in consultation, as necessary, with other British and Irish Government Depart ments and to establish a confidential mechanism across both islands for the reciprocal identification of people who are considered to be unsuitable to work with children and young people.

The following members have been appointed and are serving on the group:

Tom Boland	Department of Education & Science
Paul Kennedy	Department of Education & Science
Tony Dalton	Department of Education & Science
John Kelly	Department of Education & Science
Gerard Hughes	Department of Health & Children
Christine Jendoubi	Department of Education NorthernIreland
June Ingram	Department of Education NorthernIreland
Maurice Croxier	NEELB
Sean McGuickin	Department of Education NorthernIreland

It is expected that the group will provide me with detailed proposals early this year.