Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 June 2020
768. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if a review of the case of persons (details supplied) will be expedited; and if he will liaise with Tusla and the Ombudsman for Children in order to decide the type of review and enquiry necessary in relation to the matter. [13299/20]
View answerThank you deputy for raising this important matter. I was very impressed by the strength of the women involved in coming forward to share the experience of the abuse they suffered at the hands of their father. Their courage is to be commended.
In looking at the question of an enquiry into the role of public officials in this matter, I have to bear in mind that not all court proceedings have concluded in this matter. Tusla, the Child and Family Agency has engaged in a file review of children's services, from files available to it the previous South Eastern Health Board and the HSE. They have confirmed there is evidence of family support and social work contact starting in the mid 1980’s. All efforts are being made to expedite this work. While findings from this work will help inform any further review/enquiry into this matter Tusla cannot account for role of Public Health Nursing, general HSE community services, teachers and AGS during this period.
I have asked to be kept informed of progress with the review.
