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

I have indicated that, as Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I felt that one of the key aspects was implementing mandatory reporting in the Children First Act 2015. I am as conscious as anyone of those statistics increasing and it would distress anyone. As I have indicated, in the context of my Ministry and with Tusla's support, we are focused on and we are committed to providing those children who are experiencing homelessness and are in emergency accommodation with spaces where they and their families can avail of services in a safe, warm and welcoming environment where they feel comfortable and respected. That is especially so in the family resource centres, where the children can do their homework, relax, receive nutritious food or avail of Wi-Fi. I have put in place measures to ensure that they can continue to receive free childcare places and supports, indicating above all additional ways in which we can support them if they are in that emergency accommodation, particularly in terms of the hubs and finding ways for the family resource centres to work more closely with them. Those children who are experiencing those difficulties will receive all of the support that my Department can offer.

See this speech in context