Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Recent statistics from the Child and Family Agency are alarming. Some 3,250 high priority cases identified over the summer are awaiting a response. Some 4,700 cases were deemed to be of medium priority while 1,500 were listed as low priority. The number of children at risk received by social services increased by 98% over the past seven years, from 21,000 to 41,600 in 2013. This gives cause for great concern and needs to be addressed. Budget and staffing levels do not reflect the increased demand and services are coming under severe pressure on a weekly basis. Early intervention is essential to avoid problems escalating through neglect. If there is no intervention, children will naturally end up in care. I ask the Minister to use his office to intervene in this situation immediately, and to give direction and a working plan to address these matters at an early stage.

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