Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 December 2013
455. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the future plans for a unit (details supplied) in County Dublin; if the unit will remain open in its current form; if not, the changes that will be made; the rationale behind such planned changes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52847/13]
View answerI have been advised by the HSE that Crannóg Nua in Portrane, Co. Dublin will cease providing High Support services in May 2014 once the current residents complete their interventions and move on to their next placements. Crannóg Nua will then undergo a period of refurbishment and enhancement in order to bring the standard of the current facilities up to the level of security required to provide Special Care services from that location. In addition, a further building is being added.
The HSE has also advised that Children and Family Services are committed to designing and developing a comprehensive continuum of care services to meet the divergent and complex needs of all children in care. In 2012, Children and Family Services initiated an in depth review of all residential care services for children and young people. This review will assist in mapping and reinforcing the various stages along the continuum of care provision in Children and Family Services as well as identifying where maps may exist. A National Director of Residential Services is now in post to take the review forward and ensure the strategic development of such services with all necessary allied supports necessary.
