Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 June 2016
24. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she is satisfied that young persons and staff at the Oberstown detention facility are guaranteed safety under the current policy and procedures that staff are provided with adequate training and supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14832/16]
View answerAs Minister with responsibility for children and young people, I am committed, first and foremost, to the provision of an appropriate, safe and secure environment for children in custody on the Oberstown campus. These children are cared for by staff who deserve to have a safe working environment.
In Oberstown, there is an emphasis on training in behaviour management programmes that de-escalate and, where possible, avoid crises involving the behaviour of children. I condemn any and all incidents resulting in assault and injury to staff. There is no acceptable level of violent behaviour in a children detention school.
Children are assessed daily for all forms of risk and in the light of such assessments the residential care plans for children are reviewed accordingly. The Oberstown Campus has in place a published bespoke behaviour management policy which has been developed in conjunction with the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA who are internationally recognised for their expertise in this area. Oberstown staff are provided with formal training in the policy with the object of providing staff with the skills to manage the behaviour of children. Policies and procedures are continually reviewed with the aim of ensuring safe and secure custody for children and the safety of staff.
Unfortunately, the risk of injury cannot be excluded completely given the nature of a children detention school. A specific employee assistance programme is in place to assist members of staff on foot of any such incident where required. Staff are fully supported where incidents have to be investigated by the Garda authorities.
I also understand that the issues of staff safety and training supports are currently the subject of discussion between Oberstown management and staff representatives. I welcome the fact that this engagement is taking place and intend to continue to monitor the progress of this discussions, in conjunction with the Oberstown board of management.
