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Child Abuse Reports

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 July 2013

Thursday, 4 July 2013

Questions (21)

Clare Daly

Question:

21. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when allegations of abuse in crèche and preschool facilities were first brought to her attention; and the steps she took to deal with the matter. [32345/13]

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Written answers

My Department was first contacted by the "Prime Time" investigation programme on crèches on 20 February 2013 seeking information on the National Childcare Investment Programme which was implemented during 2006 to 2011. I understand a number of follow on queries regarding funding were received by my Department between then and 28 May. I was also aware around that time that RTE was planning to feature the area of childcare in a Primetime programme to be broadcast in May. I was not informed of the nature of the broadcast planned and I did not see any of the film footage until it was broadcast by RTE. As a result, I was unaware of the specific incidents until they were shown.

I understand that officials in the Health Service Executive (HSE) received separate complaints in relation to the services filmed for the Primetime programme but that there was no indication that these were linked to one another or to the forthcoming Primetime programme. The HSE responded to these complaints by commencing an investigation. I also understand that the HSE was shown some of the film footage in the days before it was broadcast and immediately went to the Garda who initiated the investigation which is now taking place.

I have already expressed my shock and distress at the scenes broadcast on this Primetime programme. I am working closely with the HSE to progress a number of immediate actions to strengthen the current inspection process. I am also continuing to work on a number of fronts to drive the quality agenda for preschool services, including increasing the qualification requirements for staff working in preschool services and increasing the supports available to services to implement the Síolta and Aistear quality frameworks.

Question No. 22 answered with Question No. 17.
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