Mr. Brian Lee:

This is a very important point. There are two overarching issues. We all need to reflect on the Children First piece as regards mandatory reporting and what we can do collectively, as a State, through Tusla and the Department, to strengthen mandatory reporting. On the powers that Tusla might have, some have been mentioned already. Closing an unregistered service immediately is really important. The ability to inform or contact parents within a legislative framework and to close services immediately where we have a grave concern regarding the health and safety of children are equally important. If we could get those through the legislative system quickly, that would be of huge benefit to children and families.