Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2016
476. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health the supports in place for young women leaving State care, particular those with mild intellectual disabilities who are pregnant or with young children (details supplied); and the steps being taken to address this. [30605/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe matters raised by the Deputy appear to refer to supports for young women leaving State care, in particular those who are pregnant or with young children who are reportedly being housed in hotels, with their children.
It would appear that the issues raised in the question are beyond the remit of my own Department. However, I understand that organisation of the provision of Aftercare for young people leaving State care is the responsibility of Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, which is under the aegis of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. All young people who have had a care history with the Agency are entitled to an Aftercare service. I am advised that services are provided on the basis of assessment of need, age and the length of time the young person was in care. They are provided in partnership with a wide range of statutory and non-statutory agencies. In that regard, queries in relation to Aftercare in general would be the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.
The specific issue of the provision of accommodation should be more appropriately addressed to my colleague the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government. I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
