I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 57 together.
Officials from my Department have been in contact with this organisation in relation to the allegations made. They were informed that the organisation carried out its own internal investigation into handling of the allegation of serious abuse and determined that the complainant had not reported the alleged abuse to any member of staff at the time the alleged incident occurred.
Officials were also informed that Tusla has reviewed the Child Protection and Safeguarding policies and practices in place within the organisation and deemed that young people's safety is protected. The organisation has informed my Department that the Ombudsman for Children has also completed an examination of the complaint and was satisfied that the organisation acted reasonably towards the complainant.
The organisation is obliged to adhere to the requirements of the recently enacted provisions of the Children First Act 2015 and has provided written confirmation to my Department that the requisite Child Safeguarding Statement and risk assessment is completed.
I have asked my officials to seek a written report on this matter from the organisation concerned.