Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2017
646. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of children who had previously been living in direct provision who were subsequently placed in care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8331/17]
View answerThe direct provision system is under the policy remit of my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality. I understand that Tusla, the Child and Family Agency records any relevant information on the child's individual files, including where they have been living, but does not collate data in the manner requested by the Deputy.
Children living in direct provision are in the care of their parent(s). Concerns about the welfare, safety or well-being of a child in direct provision are reported to the Child and Family Agency, Tusla, in line with Children First guidelines. I would note that Tusla has seconded a social work team leader to the Reception and Integration Agency, in the Department of Justice and Equality, to assist with their work with families living in direct provision.
