Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Tuesday's "Prime Time" programme focused on a particularly shocking case of abuse and a failure on the part of State agencies. I take this opportunity to commend Rachel Barry and the women who asked to be identified as Amy and Sarah on their bravery. I have raised the issue of resources in the area of child protection before. However, no shortage of resources could ever excuse this level of failure or these children being left in danger when there was full knowledge of the risk that existed. The victims have said that they do not have any confidence in the review mechanism to which the Taoiseach referred yesterday. They do not believe that it will lead to a satisfactory outcome. They have called for a fully independent investigation. The Taoiseach has a responsibility to see that this happens. These women have written to the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone, requesting the establishment of a commission of investigation similar to that relating to the Grace case. I urge the Taoiseach to respond positively to this request and to engage with the victims in order to ensure that such a commission is established.

See this speech in context