Joan Freeman (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Use of handcuffs - I am instantly offended on hearing that. I was going to ask Mr. Bergin to list the types of restraints that are used in practice. According to the Oberstown records, when restraints have been used, the type used has not been recorded. I find that worrying. Is it a deliberate act that the records do not show that or was it a mistake?

Mr. Bergin said that the practice of single separation is really for children on admission in the first place. As we know, single separation has taken place with children who are detained there. The records show that not only did some children spend long periods of time alone, but also it did not show that this was used as a last resort. We have no idea if this was a quickie solution or if everything had taken place to ensure that the proper procedures were followed. I will throw all these questions in and I appreciate Mr. Bergin listening.