Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 November 2016
708. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to open a residential unit in County Donegal for children in foster care (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34674/16]
View answerAt the end of June 2016, there were 209 children in care in Donegal with over 96% in foster care, broken down by 79% in general foster care and 17% in relative foster care. There was less than 2% in general residential care with the remainder in other placements determined by their care plan. This compares very favourably with the national figure of just over 93% of children in care in foster care.
Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has confirmed that the purpose and function of the centre in Letterkenny remains under consideration while the premises is being upgraded. The local placement needs, as determined by social work services in the area, will be taken into account when deciding on the future of the centre.
