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

Tusla has advised me that 1,949 historical or retrospective cases were on hand at the end of July 2017. This represented an increase of 51 on the number for June. Of the cases on hand, 1,370 were allocated to a social worker and 579 were awaiting allocation. The number of unallocated cases has increased by seven since June. All of these referrals have been reviewed by a social worker. As the Deputy is aware, an historical or retrospective disclosure is one in which an adult discloses abuse experienced in childhood. I understand the overwhelming majority of such disclosures are about sexual abuse. This is a very complex and worrying situation. The safety of children today is my top priority.

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It is important to point out that all child protection referrals which allege current or past criminal activity are referred to An Gardaí Síochána. Tusla’s focus is to screen historical or retrospective disclosures for any indication of current risk to children. In cases of urgent risk to a child, the disclosure is acted on immediately. Tusla is dependent on the person making an allegation engaging directly with it and being prepared for his or her identity to be shared with the alleged abuser.

Tusla has a limited role where there is no evidence of a current risk to children. In respect of an adult making a disclosure, Tusla may assist him or her in accessing HSE counselling services. I have asked Tusla to report to me monthly on the progress it is making.

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