James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am keenly aware that homelessness is very disruptive to normal family life, and it is a major issue that the Government is tackling. Homelessness can have such a negative impact on children's education and welfare as they move from one accommodation to another while still trying to attend the same school and maintain relationships with their friends. It impacts not just on their welfare and education, but also on their sense of security. For the children and their families who find themselves in emergency accommodation, the primary need is for a family home, and responsibility for this lies with local authorities and my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Alan Kelly.

Children in emergency homeless accommodation are in the care of their parent or parents, and a key role of the primary carer is that of protection. If there is a specific child protection concern, it should be reported immediately to Tusla for appropriate response. Tusla provides family support and works with relevant services to maximise the supports available to children and families who are homeless. Where underlying problems are identified, for example mental health issues, it can refer the family to the appropriate services.

Homelessness as part of a family group is not of itself a basis for seeking to receive a child into care. However, where there is a specific child protection concern, Tusla can investigate and take the child into care if necessary and only if it is in the best interests of the child. The primary purpose of the Child and Family Agency is to support families, and the best place for a child is in a home with a family.

Tusla is very much aware of general welfare issues for families and has engaged in multi-agency working on this issue. A homelessness liaison officer has recently been appointed to lead Tusla's engagement with the homeless services, particularly regarding the overall welfare and protection of children.

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