Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 October 2014
614. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the allegations regarding lack of child safety guidelines and code of ethics, their poor procedures and other matters raised in relation to the treatment of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 22 by an association. [40460/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that officials in my Department were asked by the previous Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to meet with the persons mentioned by the Deputy. I am informed by my officials that a meeting took place on 23 June and that the matters mentioned by the Deputy were discussed.
Sporting organisations are independent, autonomous bodies. I do not have a role in relation to internal disputes within sporting organisations and clubs and it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in such disputes. I would, however, encourage the parties to any dispute to use the dispute resolution mechanisms that are in place for sport.
In relation to any child protection or child safety concerns, I must advise that if a person has any concerns about the welfare of a child they should report those concerns to the Child and Family Agency under the Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children. If a person has any concerns about the risk any adult may pose to a child, or children, these may also be reported to the Agency under the Guidance.
