Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 June 2020
746. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if he will be requesting a review of child safety measures and welfare in an organisation (details supplied) in view of an allegation of retrospective child abuse within the organisation being deemed founded by Tusla; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13374/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhere an organisation or individual have reasonable grounds for concern that a child may have been, is being, or is at risk of being abused or neglected it is their duty to contact Tusla’s local child protection social work department. If a referrer is unsure if they have reasonable grounds for concern they can contact Tusla staff who will offer guidance and support to the referrer as appropriate.
I am aware that Tusla’s Child Safeguarding Statement Compliance Unit engaged with St. John’s Ambulance earlier in 2019 and it was deemed to have a compliant safeguarding statement.
The Principal Social Worker with responsibility for retrospective abuse referrals in this area has liaised with relevant social work staff across the Dublin Mid-Leinster Region and has reviewed records available to her. I am informed that she is satisfied that she has no information available to her at this time to suggest that there are any other allegations pertaining to persons associated with St. John’s ambulance. If there are any individuals with evidence to the contrary I would encourage them to come forward and air their concerns.
