Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yes. Of course I am aware of the national review panel report. It adds to the motivation and the need to ensure a redoubling of efforts in recruitment and retention. I am indicating that I also do not find it acceptable and I agree with the Deputy in this. In addition I acknowledge, and may have previously pointed out, the aspects of the actions Tusla is taking to recruit and retain staff.

I may refer to some of those actions later in response to another question. It is important to recognise that all children in care are risk assessed. Those at the highest risk are allocated a social worker. We also have duty social work teams carrying out monitoring, as well as link social workers. It is not as if the children are without social workers. It is part of the effort to ensure the children who are in care without a specifically allocated social worker are not at risk in respect of their care.

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