Residential Institutions

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 September 2016

Tuesday, 27 September 2016

Questions (959)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

959. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will provide a timeframe for the appointment of a centre manager to take charge of a children and young people's residential care facility (details supplied); if all those who previously resided at the facility prior to its recent closure and, who should so desire, shall be permitted to return to the unit in order to once again take up residence; if the latter is permissible, the measures that will be taken to facilitate this relocation process and to provide assistance to service users as part of this transition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26940/16]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

As previously advised, a centre manager has been identified for the residential centre in question. An exact date of appointment will be agreed when the timescale for capital and minor capital works is available. This information will allow for a timeline to be developed around the appointment of the manager and the reopening plan for the centre.

The Social Work Management and Residential Management are working together to ensure that the residential facility meets the needs of young people in the region. Tusla will endeavour, in line with the care plans of children who have been resident in the centre previously, to ensure their needs are met and voices heard in their placement planning. Tusla has advised that it cannot comment on individual young people for confidentiality reasons.