Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 September 2014
721. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of applications that have been made to the courts in every calendar year since 1 August 2012 to have legal services costs related to the representation of guardians ad litem taxed or measured as provided for in sections 25(4), 26(2) and 26(2C) of the Child Care Act 1991, as amended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33298/14]
View answerTusla, the Child and Family Agency, has responsibility for payment of Guardian ad litem and associated legal services under the Child Care Act 1991.
I am informed that Tusla has made no referrals to the Taxing Master since its establishment on 1 January, 2014. The information sought for the period from 1 August, 2012 to 31 December 2013 i.e. that period of time when this matter was the responsibility of the Health Services Executive, remains outstanding and I have requested Tusla to ascertain the position and inform the Deputy regarding same as soon as possible.
I should clarify that Section 26 (2)(c) of the Child Care Act 1991 (as amended) has not been commenced.
