Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have a couple of questions. Dr. Muldoon and I have discussed in previous conversations the Ombudsman for Children's role and remit in the education sector. I will leave that issue for another time because the Committee on Education and Skills will probably have hearings on education at some point.

Could legislators assist the Ombudsman for Children by extending the powers or remit of the office in legislation? I am particularly interested in protocols. How does Dr. Muldoon find dealing with State agencies such as Tusla? Is this difficult? Are the State agencies helpful and co-operative? Does the office have a good understanding with these agencies or is the relationship characterised by challenges?

I am interested in Dr. Muldoon's thoughts on whether people should stay in State care until the age of 21 years. Is that a practical solution or would it give rise to constitutional issues? What are the facts surrounding this issue and what is Dr. Muldoon's opinion on it?

Has the outcome of the referendum on children's rights resulted in any tangible and marked improvements? While I appreciate the legislation contingent on the referendum result was passed only recently, I am interested in finding out if there have been any tangible improvements for children.

Has the Ombudsman for Children done research on the number of children in the care of the State with a care plan? Are figures available on the number of children with a care plan or how many have had a social worker assigned to them? Has the office done much research on this area and does it have information in this regard?