The Deputy raises a number of issues relating to quality in Special Emergency Arrangements [SEAs].
In relation to the matter of “high occupancy rates” in such arrangements, as referenced by the Deputy, I understand that, based on assessed needs of Unaccompanied Minors and Separated Children Seeking International Protection (SCSIP) who have been accommodated in an SEA, it is often the case that these young people will share a bedroom. However, I am assured that these children will have an individual bed. I have also been informed by Tusla that where concerns were raised in this regard, Tusla’s SCSIP service were requested to review capacity levels in each SEA premises in line with good practice, health and safety considerations, and young people’s rights.
I would share the Deputy’s concern that vulnerable children accommodated by Tusla would have the best possible care, and that the types of issues raised by the Deputy are not repeated. In this regard, I and my officials continue to prioritise supporting Tusla to reduce its reliance on SEAs and ensure the needs of children can be met in mainstream alternative care placements. In the interim, specific measures are being taken by Tusla to promote and support the quality and safety of these placements including ongoing monitoring and oversight.
I am advised by Tusla that where infectious skin conditions were present on monitoring visits to the SEAs in question, Tusla confirmed through case records and interviews that the young people involved were in receipt of medical intervention. The SEA coordinators within Tusla are alerted to all such incidents in these placements, and that all HSE protocols are followed if bed bugs or scabies are identified within an SEA.
I am also advised that, in such circumstances, if the young person is registered with a GP, they are treated by the GP, and if not the young person is seen by Safetynet primary care services. All young people in the SEA are referred to the GP or Safetynet Primary Care Services for assessment and treatment and all medical advice is followed. I also understand that following the identification of these concerns, the Tusla SCSIP service was requested to ensure that all young people concerned were to be visited by a Tusla social worker as a priority.
The care and welfare of children in care, including in SEAs, is a priority for Government, and the issues raised by the Deputy continue to be the subject of focussed and continuous engagement between my officials and Tusla at every level.
