Children in Care

Tuesday, 18 September 2012

Ceisteanna (1484)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

1484. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reasons the Health Service Executive made the decision to close a children's residential unit in Dublin Central (details supplied); if her attention has been drawn to the valuable service this unit has provided for children and families in the area; if the staff will be redeployed in the north inner city community as other community based projects are understaffed due to recent retirements; if an adequate timeframe will be granted to long-staying children of the residential unit to facilitate a fair transition process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38924/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I am advised by the HSE that it has decided to close the Children's Residential Centre in question, following concerns about building standards that were raised by HIQA. The HSE met with staff and advised them of the decision. They will be offered the opportunity to continue to work in residential care or to work in the community in access or aftercare in line with the provisions of the Croke Park Public Services Agreement. The transition of the young people in the unit will be managed in an appropriate manner having regard to their needs.