Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2024
434. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if, following his discussion in Dáil Éireann (details supplied) on 6 December 2023, he has considered offering an apology on behalf of the State to a person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20377/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI thank the Deputy for his question. At the outset, I wish to again acknowledge the profound personal impacts felt by your constituent and by his family as a result of incorrect and wrong allegations made in this case. It is important and appropriate that Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, as the State body with statutory responsibility for the delivery of child protection and welfare services, has issued an apology to your constituent and that Tusla has engaged directly to advance reparatory measures.
It is also important to note that decisions by public organisations or Government Departments can be brought to the attention of the Office of the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman provides an independent, fair, and free to use service. The Ombudsman will ask for details relating to the issue and a copy of the organisation or Department's final response to a complaint. The Ombudsman can be contacted by clicking on the ‘Make A Complaint’ link at www.ombudsman.ie or writing to the Office of the Ombudsman, 6 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 W773. The Ombudsman can also be contacted on 01 636 5600 to advise on queries or provide assistance.
