Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 25 November 2025

Select Committee on Children and Equality

Estimates for Public Services 2025
Vote 40 - Children and Equality (Supplementary)

2:00 am

Photo of Norma FoleyNorma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

I will revert to my other hat in terms of early learning and so on in saying I believe in programmes like Equal Start. The earlier we intervene, the better. I also believe in the various youth diversion programmes and so on that the Department of justice runs. I absolutely agree with the Deputy on that point. There are significant demands. To open a special care bed, for example, it takes seven to eight individuals. A case was raised with me last week where 16 people were required to man one bed, such are the complexities a young person might have. If that is what is required and appropriate, then it must be put in place. I absolutely want to see that being done.

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