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

I understand the Deputy's questions and I appreciate his representation. He asked what I have done and I have indicated that I did a number of things. I went back to Tusla and asked whether it was possible and if there were additional moneys. The Cottage Home does great work, as the Deputy has indicated. I have met representatives from it. It is true, as the Deputy has indicated, that prevention work potentially saves money down the line. I acknowledge that. Tusla has been interrogated on this issue and it does not have additional moneys. Although, given the scale of other issues, €400,000 does not seem to be a significant sum of money, it is significant generally speaking, in the context of the budget that Tusla has to provide services for families and children in various regions. There is not the money at this time.

The second part of my answer is that they have been invited to come and look at the planning as we move into the additional time. There may be a possibility, although I am aware it may be too late for the service and I deeply regret that.

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