Catherine Noone (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank all the representatives for attending the committee today. I missed most of the contributions due to other commitments. I have a brief question for the witnesses from Tusla and, perhaps, some of the medical professionals present. Dr. Geoffrey Shannon's report is very topical at the moment, and I note Mr. Jim Gibson's comments that the sections 12 and 13 aspect of the report is not necessarily relevant to this. I believe there is a relevancy. I am interested in knowing what is recommended from a psychological-psychiatric point of view for children who are in section 12 and section 13 situations where there is a mental health issue. Is it sufficient that they get that type of help after the event and once they have met a social care worker or a social worker?

What is the current position on the extra workers throughout the country and the out of hours service, and what is required from the point of view of a medical professional? I know there is a review going on. In respect of our interagency conversation, it may not be relevant, but does the protocol apply to the Garda Síochána as well? I have been looking into this lately in respect of sections 12 and 13, which are quite topical.