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

When I received the previous reply on this matter from the Minister in July, the protocol was still awaiting approval. I welcome its introduction. It is extremely important that this practical area of understanding and addressing mutual problems should be part and parcel of normal political life across the island of Ireland. The protocol is going to be of assistance in terms of building levels of ongoing co-operation between the respective authorities North and South.

How will the protocol operate in the context of the establishment of the new child and family support agency, which was the subject of the previous question, on 1 January next? The protocol is, of course, just a statement of shared intent and outlook in respect of specific issues that present. Does the potential exist to move on from the protocol and take a further step of co-operation on a new level and not only in respect of matters relating to child protection? In other words, will it be possible to foster co-operation and information sharing with regard to those who constitute a risk to children? At present, there is a significant deficiency in the context of the position relating to the Six Counties and that of this State.

See this speech in context