Children in Care

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 February 2012

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Questions (208)

Gerald Nash

Question:

208 Deputy Gerald Nash asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of children from this State with exceptional needs and behavioural issues who are currently receiving residential support in Scotland; if she will detail the cost to the Exchequer of same; if she will provide details on the number of special care unit and child detention centre units available to children with exceptional needs; the number of places currently available to such children; and her plans for the development of additional places to ensure that these young persons can be supported in residential facilities in the State. [8904/12]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald)

I am informed by the HSE, that on 26 January last there were 10 children in specialised units overseas, detained on High Court Detention Orders. These placements were mainly in the UK and allow for access to therapeutic services not available in this country or where a special care placement is urgently needed and one is not available here. I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy with the most up-to-date information in relation to the other issues raised.