Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 March 2013
254. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of separated children seeking asylum here who have gone missing on a yearly basis between 2005 and 2012; and the number of these children whose whereabouts remains unknown. [15720/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware the HSE has primary responsibility under the Child Care Act, 1991 for the care of separated or unaccompanied children seeking asylum in the State. In that regard, any persons deemed to be unaccompanied minors by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner (ORAC) are referred to the HSE under Section 8 of the Refugee Act, 1996.
On referral by the ORAC, the HSE determines whether it is in the child's interest to have an application for asylum made on their behalf. In the event that an application is made, I am advised that the HSE then assists the minor throughout the asylum process, including accompanying the minor during the course of their asylum interview.
I am also advised that the HSE takes all necessary steps to ensure the safety and welfare of these young people. Children who are unaccompanied and are seeking asylum are received into the care of the HSE under the Child Care Act 1991. They are allocated a social worker, their needs are assessed and a Care Plan is developed. These children are generally placed in a foster care family placement, although some older children are placed in regulated residential facilities that cater for small numbers. Younger children are, as a matter of policy, placed in family placement. The overall numbers of unaccompanied children seeking asylum has decreased significantly in recent years. There were 26 such applications in 2011 and 23 in 2012.
In relation to the number of unaccompanied asylum seekers who are declared to be missing, I can advise the Deputy that the latest figures are being compiled and will be forwarded to her as soon as possible by my colleague the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs who has overall responsibility in this area.
