Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 May 2017
27. Deputy Margaret Murphy O'Mahony asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the steps she is taking to address the issues and concerns raised in the recent Mary case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22360/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraInitiatives to address the findings of the care review for "Mary" have been put in place that will, at the very least, minimise the risk of a reoccurrence of this kind of event. Actions have already been taken by the HSE and Tusla which address the findings of the report.
The HSE and Tusla have published a joint protocol to promote the best interests of children in care with a serious disability, I am assured it is being implemented. This is strengthening the collaborative structures between Tusla and the HSE in this area. The protocol clarifies the separate and distinct roles of both agencies and will in particular ensure joint and effective management of the transition to adult services of young people leaving care with a disability or who have complex mental health issues.
“Mary” is a young woman with an intellectual disability who continued to reside in her former foster placement on reaching adulthood, when a retrospective allegation of child sexual abuse had been made against one of the foster carers. “Mary” was an adult when the allegation was reported and a safeguarding plan was put in place.
It is important to note that the case review was clear that there was a high level of commitment to "Mary" by the individual Tusla, HSE and NGO staff involved in her care. I am also mindful that, while an allegation was made, there has been no evidence of any wrongdoing involving children placed with the foster family, or involving "Mary" herself.
I want to acknowledge that the Government response was a collaborative effort between myself, Minister Harris and Minister McGrath, with the unflagging support of Ministers McEntee and Byrne.
