Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am aware that the Deputy also raised the case of Molly yesterday. The Ombudsman for Children's report which is very concerning highlights a gap in the provision and co-ordination of supports and services by Tusla and the HSE for children in foster care who have diagnosed moderate or severe disabilities. The Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, and the Minister, Deputy Katherine Zappone, are taking and have taken the findings very seriously. The Ombudsman for Children's report has been accepted in full by Tusla and the HSE which are committed to implementing the recommendations set out in it. I have received a note on the matter from the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, which confirms that Molly's supports are now in place. A joint protocol that has been agreed and is being implemented will result in structures being put in place to support better care planning and transitional arrangements between the HSE and Tusla. This gives us an important opportunity to review all existing placements. According to Tusla reports, there are 450 cases in the moderate to severe to profound disability range. We are responding as necessary to a need and a gap that has been exposed by the case of Molly.

The Government recognises the invaluable services provided by section 39 organisations. I am sure a number of Deputies have met representatives of such organisations. I have met them in the context of hospice care, in particular. There is no doubt that there is work for the Government to do to resolve this issue and we are committed to doing so. The Ministers, Deputies Simon Harris and Paschal Donohoe, and the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, have been working collectively on it for some time.

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