Mr. Packie Kelly:

I thank the Deputies for their observations. The development of this new agency is a challenge for us all. It is clear the system has failed families. We have a chance to put this right and there is a huge enthusiasm to do so. One of the key pieces is early intervention. The 106 family resource centres that have been operating for years are littered with stories of supporting families which have not entered the child protection system. We cannot estimate a figure for the savings to the State that bringing them into the system would entail.

It is important that there is a large range of stakeholders involved in the agency. There are other players, particularly in the primary care system, that should be here today. We hope that wisdom will prevail and they will be included shortly.

We are concerned that the agency could develop and focus just on child protection. Many claim this will not be the case. If it is not going to be the case, we would be looking for the current legislation that is going through the Dáil to take over the family resource centre programme.

Everyone has asked when the agency will get started. Members should ask Mr. Gordon Jeyes, when he attends the committee, when the local area pathways groups will be up and running. When this happens, we will be able to get support to the families in need.