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

I agree with Deputy Rabbitte in that regard. What I am trying to indicate is how to identify risk or possible risk to children and to protect them. Adults who request or who would benefit from counselling or other supports are directed to the HSE or other counselling bodies that support victims of abuse.

I am keen to emphasise a point I indicated in my answer. If someone comes to Tusla and goes through that process, in keeping with the Barr judgment, Tusla is obliged to write to the person against whom the allegations have been made where there is sufficient information to do so. This is going to result in a large number of letters issuing around the same time from the end of quarter 2 or the beginning of quarter 3 in 2017. It is likely to raise public awareness.

It is important the public and the media understand the process Tusla is obliged to follow in respect of writing those letters. The aim of the process is to balance the safety of children and fair process for a person against whom an allegation is made. My Department and Tusla will work together closely on a communications strategy to provide assurances on these matters relating to public information.

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