Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 January 2017
1678. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if there are sufficient private residential services to meet the demand required by Tusla; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41383/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe latest figures from Tusla indicate that, at the end of October 2016, there were 6,306 children in care. Of these, over 93% were in foster care, either with relatives or a general foster placement and 5% were in a general residential placement. At the end of October 2016, there were approximately 160 centres, including private, statutory and community based centres caring for 320 children. These centres also cater for 18 year olds who are no longer in care but who are completing school.
Residential care is the placement of choice for older children who have needs that are best met by this placement type. In general, residential care is based in domestic style homes, catering for 2 or 3 older children.
The placement of children in care is governed by Regulations. These provide, inter alia, for the welfare of the child, the care practices, care records, accommodation and safety precautions. Tusla has an active procurement policy and keeps its requirements under review and commissions foster and residential services as required. This ensures that Tusla can access specialist services to meet the emotional and mental health needs of children in care.
The Health Information & Quality Authority (HIQA) inspects all Tusla-run residential centres, and publishes its findings on www.hiqa.ie. Tusla has responsibility for inspecting all private and voluntary children's residential centres and these inspection reports are available on the Tusla website, www.tusla.ie.
