Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Given the seriousness of the deficiencies highlighted in the Garda Inspectorate's report, will the Minister ask for an update report on the joint efforts being employed by the Garda and Health Service Executive to address them? It is not sufficient to presume or assume these matters have been dealt with in the manner in which one would expect them to be dealt with. Will the Minister ask that a report on the matter be presented and will she share the report with the House in order that Deputies with responsibility for addressing issues relating to children are kept informed?

The Minister referred to a Garda assistant commissioner. One of the recommendations of the inspectorate's report was that a Garda assistant commissioner be given special responsibility for child protection. Has that step been taken? The Minister can confirm that such is the case. Could the Minister circulate the information on the holder of that responsibility at her convenience?

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