Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I understand that the internal HSE inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of the person referred to by the Deputy has been recently completed. A draft report has now been received by the HSE. I am informed that a final report is imminent.

The inquiry was set up at the request of the then Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Brian Lenihan. Deputy Lenihan requested that an internal inquiry be carried out and that the Minister be made aware of the findings of the inquiry. In accordance with this request, I understand that the findings of the inquiry will be forwarded to me once the report is finalised.

I acknowledge the tragic death of this young person. I am committed to ensuring that we learn lessons from any inquiry or investigation of this kind and that we take the necessary steps to ensure that, where possible, tragedies can be averted in the future. The development of robust, responsive and appropriate child welfare and protection services is a priority for both myself, as Minister of State with responsibility for children and youth affairs, and the Government.

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