Catherine Noone (Fine Gael)
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I thank the representatives of Tusla for attending this afternoon's meeting. We appreciate it. They have acknowledged the systemic failures that exist within Tusla as an organisation. I do not intend it to be personal when I say that the people at the top of Tusla need to have a cold, hard look at the organisation based on this report. Perhaps they are doing that. It is too bad that we hear about the various instances that occur so regularly. When we, as legislators, are discussing this matter with the witnesses today, we are seeking answers to our questions in order that the public can be somewhat reassured that the most vulnerable children in the State are being looked out for. Is there a problem with the skills mix that needs to be resolved? What can the witnesses say to reassure those who are tuning into today's proceedings? Mr. McBride said at the outset that a child could be in harm's way without the knowledge of Tusla. I accept that this can happen but I suggest that such cases should be exceptional. Is that too much for us to expect from the organisation? I understand why Mr. McBride wants to be realistic about what people can expect. I ask him to comment on what I have said.