Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

First, I wish to pass on apologies from my colleague and party spokesperson on children and youth affairs, Deputy Troy, who was unable to be here today. I know he has worked very hard on this Bill. I commend the Minister on the hard work she has done in introducing this landmark legislation. I also commend Deputy Ó Caoláin, who has a great command of his brief and is very passionate about this area. He has done immense work in this regard, not only in this Dáil but in previous ones.

The establishment of the new child and family agency is very welcome. Unfortunately, the history of our country is very much blighted by failures to protect children and to provide services to them. A lot of work has been done on this in recent years but sadly, it was too late for many people, some of whom are living today with the scars of not having had the services they needed and deserved when they were children.

It is an exciting time for everybody involved in the new agency. It is also a very challenging time. We all know that the establishment of a new agency is not an answer in itself and we have seen that in the past. There is also a requirement for effective management, sound structures and adequate resources. A lot of work remains to be done in that regard. I wish Ms Norah Gibbons, the chairperson of the new agency, well. She has a great track record in this area and I have no doubt that her commitment will serve the new agency well. The same holds true for Mr. Gordon Jeyes, the chief executive designate, who has put immense work into this. He is highly capable and has a fantastic background in the area. His experience will be needed because a lot of the work remains to be done. I have no doubt that it has been challenging in recent years while this legislation has been in gestation. The fact that the agency is now established on a legislative basis is very welcome. I urge the Minister to ensure that the resources needed are made available. I know she is very aware of the gaps that exist and I hope she will do everything in her power to plug them. I hope this agency will serve the best interests of the children of this country.

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