Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 July 2021
319. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the criteria by which Tusla quantifies complex needs in a child; the number of children categorised as such currently and in each of the past three years in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35517/21]
View answer320. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will clarify the situation whereby out of hours, in the absence of appropriate facilities, children with complex needs are being accommodated in hotels; the cost of such in 2021 and in each of the past three years; the number of children involved in 2021 and in each of the past three years in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35518/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 319 and 320 together.
The Deputy is referring to an operational matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. I have therefore referred the matter to Tusla, and asked that a direct response be provided to the Deputy.
Tusla ICT systems have been severely impacted by the cyberattack on Friday 14 May 2021. This has significant consequences in terms of how Tusla interact with services and service users including the PQ referral system. There is a great deal of work being undertaken to put alternative systems in place but at present electronic communications are impeded. This may result in a slight delay in Tusla responding to your query.
