Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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I thank Senator Freeman for those questions. I fully appreciate and affirm the experience out of which Senator Freeman has raised all those questions. It was clear from the HIQA report and the other reviews that there was room for considerable change in respect of the use of single separation with children in Oberstown. That is the first thing to say. There is an acknowledgement of that.

There are two aspects, as I understand it, in terms of the way those responsible are approaching the implementation of changes. The new policy developed and approved by the board of management is now being implemented. There is now an absolute approach to more careful systematic recording of decisions taken for single separation and why those decisions are taken. There is regular monitoring and record keeping of when children are separated. Enhanced arrangements are now in place to enable the senior management to oversee the process on a 24-7 basis, if and when it arises. New procedures and careful recording of what is going on have been put in place. This is closely observed and monitored by management as well.

I am aware that these things are happening. I have held conversations with some of the staff and, more recently, with the director. I believe the new approach and process enables a more careful assessment, response and awareness of how this separation is impacting the child or young person. I sense that is especially where Senator Freeman's question is coming from. I am going to suggest that, as part of that process, the staff who are working with the young people are present to that.

I hope that empathic presence, which has been supported through additional training to improve staff safety and confidence in being with the young person, and training on how to behave with that person, will make a difference for that young person if he or she is in the position in question. That is really important to acknowledge. With the changes in processes and oversight of management, I hope for and expect an impact on the experience of the young person.