In the light of the concerns which have been raised about the operation of the Finglas Child and Adolescent Centre by key stakeholders both internal and external to the centre, my Department has commissioned a review of the operation of the centre. The terms of reference for this review are to identify the issues and problems which are affecting the efficient and effective operation of the centre and adversely impacting on the task of caring for troubled children and to make recommendations to address the shortcomings identified. The review is being undertaken by Mr. Michael Donnellan, director of Trinity House School. It is expected that the report and recommendations will be completed within six weeks from its commencement next week. I understand that the various stakeholders at the centre are supportive of this review and I urge all involved to participate fully with the reviewer. I am most concerned that the current difficulties facing the centre are addressed as quickly as possible.
In regard to the specific queries raised by the Deputy, my Department has consulted with the centre and I understand that during the period 1 August 2003 to 31 January 2004: the gardaí were not called to the centre to deal with any incidents of out of control behaviour; there were 85 incidents when boys absconded, 51 of which incidents occurred at the centre; there was no significant damage done to the premises; and three boys who were not in the centre, having either absconded or being on home leave, were convicted of offences, which included the unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, criminal damage, trespass with intent and larceny, criminal damage and trespass, and criminal damage trespass with intent and larceny. One boy was involved in two incidents which resulted in convictions. One other boy has been charged with the theft of a mobile phone and failure to appear in court; there were 15 incidents where staff were subjected to violent threats; and a total of 2,118 days sick leave was taken by staff, other than teaching staff and the director-deputy directors, at the centre.
