Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister has responded to this question previously. I remain hugely concerned, which is why I continue to raise it with her. For her information, the last time she responded with figures up to the end of May 2012, the figure was 1,310. There needs to be a revisitation of the June figure as it could hardly have dropped so dramatically to 1,053. I am concerned about the process of establishing the figures.

Young adults 18 years and older need continuing support, particularly in these harsh economic times. As a parent of young adults, I am keenly aware of this, as many in this institution will affirm. As a substitute for birth parents, the State should treat those in our collective care no differently, which would be my certain wish. We must continue to protect vulnerable young people and our duty of care does not cease on their attaining their 18th birthday.

With all that has been exposed in recent reports, by which we are all deeply shocked, it is vital - I remake the case - to ensure a legal right to aftercare is included in the Statute Book to avoid future tragedies. The Child Care Act, as it stands, could be described as a hollow guarantee without including this legal right. There must be investment to ensure there will be sufficient resources in place to provide aftercare for all young people who require it.

I understand from previous responses that the Minister indicated ten additional dedicated aftercare workers would be recruited. Has she filled these additional posts yet? I understand there were already 45 dedicated aftercare workers in the HSE. Does the Minister accept the HSE's indication that aftercare must be provided according to needs and based on a needs assessment? Will she indicate how child or young adult friendly is this assessment? Are all young people being assessed post-care?

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