Ms Teresa Heeney:

I will discuss the issue of data and evidence in the sector. Since a full-blown and fully staffed Department that takes a policy lead in this sector is only emerging, we are at a loss for data.

This lack of data affected answering questions such as those relating to staff turnover or what percentage of services were closed. It is welcome to see, for example, that Tusla will launch a new dynamic system for inspection reports. These are currently available online but are not searchable. The new dynamic system will include information about the registration of services because we are now in the world of registration and not notification. All of these systems will help us because data will become available. Whatever we do, we have to look to the evidence and, if the methodology is rigorous, believe what it tells us. Having all of these systems speaking to each other will be useful.

There are many parties and partners in this sector, including the Department of Education and Skills and its inspectorate, Tusla and its inspectorate, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, Pobal and many other agencies. It is vital they work together to plan the strategy to go forward.