Missing Persons

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 June 2011

Tuesday, 7 June 2011

Questions (291, 292)

Shane Ross

Question:

299 Deputy Shane Ross asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will account for the delay in implementing the 116000 hotline number for missing children. [14383/11]

Arthur Spring

Question:

300 Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if the EU recommended 116000 hotline for missing children will be set up here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14396/11]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 299 and 300 together.

The purpose of the 116000 phone number is to provide a contact number to families if children go missing. My Department is in discussions with other Government Departments in relation to the Development of a hotline for missing children. The issue of missing children is a matter for the Garda Síochána.