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

I agree with the Deputy. Relatively recently, I met the Irish Association of Social Workers, a professional organisation. I examined many of these issues and the suggestions they put forward. In respect of the ability to recruit, Tusla is implementing a national transfer policy. To assist retention and the attractiveness of Tusla as an employer, it has put in place a transfer mechanism to facilitate social workers wishing to relocate to another part of the country. If a post is offered for an area other than the one in which the person lives, the possibilities at regional level are being considered in order for him or her to take a post where he or she lives. Tusla is also providing continuing professional development according to the 2017 business plan, which expects to deliver more than 650 courses by the end of the year. There are efforts being made by Tusla in respect of retention as well as recruitment to support the children in care.

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