Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have a final observation to make. I do not need a response from the witnesses but simply wish to pass on a point that was made to me by social workers. They have told me that there are significant geographic gaps in terms of placements and consequently, children are placed quite significant distances from their families, which is difficult for them. I do not need a response on that. I am simply passing on that observation. I thank all of the witnesses for their contributions. It is important to stress that there are many children who have a very happy experience of the care system. I would like to acknowledge the work of Tusla, front-line social workers and particularly foster carers, without whom the system would collapse. I want to acknowledge that good work. I am sure that the witnesses will accept that there is public expectation that we will hold Tusla to account and raise the questions that are occurring to many people on the street and highlight the issues about which our constituents are concerned. This has been a useful engagement and we look forward to continuing our work with further hearings. I thank the witnesses for their attendance and participation today.