Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 December 2023
484. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which the investigative structures within his Department are deemed adequate to meet current and future requirements as evaluated by reference to the time taken to respond to individual cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56254/23]
View answerAs you are aware, statutory and operational responsibility for the delivery of child protection and welfare services is a matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency.
As Minister, I am precluded from intervening in individual cases as there is an obligation by law that Tusla is independent in the performance of it's functions.
If I, or my Department are made aware of a potential risk to a child, these concerns are immediately brought to the attention of Tusla. Once a referral is received by Tusla, the referral is screened and any necessary assessments are carried out by the Agency. Any matter that requires investigation, is a matter for An Garda Síochána.
