Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2015
1201. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps she has taken, or will take, to address the allegations made by a person (details supplied) in County Clare to her Department that they suffered from physical, non-sexual child abuse while at school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30551/15]
View answerUnder the Child and Family Act, 2013, the Child and Family Agency has a primary responsibility to promote the safety and well-being of children. An Garda Síochána also has statutory responsibilities for the safety and welfare of children. Full details of all allegations made by the subject of this PQ were sent on 25th February 2014 to the Child and Family Agency in Ennis Co. Clare and to An Garda Síochána, Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Investigation Unit, Harcourt Street, Dublin 2.
Correspondence received from the subject of this PQ was also referred to the State Claims Agency (SCA). The SCA have advised that the person should seek and obtain independent legal advice in relation to any claim he decides to pursue arising from his experiences. I understand that the Agency has also advised him that in the absence of a proven prior complaint in relation to the alleged abuser, it is their view that I, as Minister for Education and Skills, have no liability in respect of his claim.
