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

Of course I am aware of the CEO's remarks. The CEO, my officials and I have continued the conversation throughout this time. The Deputy is aware that I made the decision to bring mandatory reporting of child abuse concerns into effect on 11 December 2017. I do not think the sky fell in.

In advance of the commencement, Tusla put in place the structures and processes necessary to facilitate the intake of mandated reports. Mandated reporters are required to make their reports in writing and they have a legal entitlement to an acknowledgement. Since 15 January, Tusla has an online portal to receive mandated reports. People can register online via the Tusla website. They are then in a position to submit reports directly to Tusla.

There were 4,477 referrals to child protection and welfare services in February 2018. This was a decrease of 8% from January 2018. The February 2018 referrals represent a 10% increase from February 2017 referrals and figures. At this early stage, it is not possible to establish if overall numbers of reports to Tusla have increased with the introduction of mandated reporting. It will be kept under review in 2018 in the normal performance of monitoring engagement between Tusla and the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. I am confident that with the implementation of the obligation for mandated reporting Tusla is responding, has put measures in place and, as the Deputy is aware, has worked with an inter-departmental group for the last couple of years so that other Departments were prepared also.

See this speech in context