Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am sorry to say the Tánaiste's answer is disappointing. We have just dealt with an historical case. We deal with many historical cases, but the report of the Ombudsman for Children does not deal with an historical case. This is happening now on our watch. Children with disabilities are being denied backup support. The refusal to restore the pay of the people who look after such children is also happening now. It is great that Molly has her supports, but it took 15 years. To get to that point her foster mother was put through the wringer. The Labour Court has acknowledged the link between public service grades and staff in section 39 agencies. To my knowledge, the Government has not so far engaged with SIPTU. I ask the Tánaiste to give a clear commitment that talks on a pay restoration process will be opened. This is needed for the sake of the workers involved and the vulnerable citizens they serve.

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