Mr. Colm Noonan:

It is exactly that – at the report stage. The child has to be under 18 and currently it is in respect of sexual crime. If that report is made and the Garda becomes aware of it, then the Barnahus kicks in. The investigation commences. The Barnahus is one of the first stages in the investigation. Equally, if concerns are brought to Tusla’s attention, then that same process kicks in. It is specifically for children where sexual offences are alleged.