Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

As the Minister is aware, HIQA released findings of reports on the recent inspections of the foster care systems in both the Galway-Roscommon and Cavan-Monaghan regions, respectively. The reports pointed out: "There were delays in receiving some specialists services and difficulties planning aftercare for children. Furthermore, not all children had an allocated social worker, and while there were some systems in place to mitigate risks, not all statutory obligations were met." The reports shine a light again on what appears to be a somewhat dysfunctional system. The welfare of those children is once again being questioned and it is the children who are exiting the system who seem to suffer disproportionately.

What provisions are in place to ensure interaction with aftercare workers, and that such workers are being properly monitored and given sufficient resources to do the level of work required? How will the Minister tackle the lack of other requirements for aftercare services to fulfil their statutory obligation?

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