Ms Catherine Bond:

That report was released three weeks ago and it was the first time that a study of that kind has been done, which looked at the cohorts of children who are in the juvenile justice system. The Irish Foster Care Association assisted in the research by providing access to foster carers. There may be a requirement to strip that report back a little bit more as to whether there are children who are presenting with high levels of difficulties in placements and high levels of aggression. Foster carers are very resilient and robust and are less likely to report this to anybody. It is another good outcome and it is a measured outcome for children in foster care. Any new research that indicates the positive aspect of family home care for children is another testament to its benefit and value.