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

I appreciate and acknowledge Deputy Sherlock's strong response. I have put Tusla's recommendations to Scouting Ireland on the record of the House in the context of its role in implementing the protections for children in terms of the Children First legislation.

What the Deputy is referring to is what Tusla has stated.

I have also indicated that there are a number of actions in which I will be engaged in the next couple of hours in order to provide what I believe is the most appropriate response to the information I received in the past couple of hours. I appreciate Deputy Sherlock's concern that we need to take robust action and I will do that as soon as I have had the opportunity to have a little bit more advice from the chief social worker as well as consider what is being placed in front of me.

The information I have received emerged as a result of meetings between Tusla and Scouting Ireland that began at the beginning of this year whereby Tusla began a process to support Scouting Ireland in implementing the requirements of Children First, including its proper procedures and policies and that its safeguarding statement is compliant. Meetings were held. The Tusla principal social worker analysed sample cases of child protection and welfare reports that were received by it from Scouting Ireland and an examination of practices relating to the helpline was carried out. As a result, Tusla laid out the recommendations I have just outlined.

I assure the House that, as Minister, my concern relates first and foremost to the children. I will give that my attention. I will do everything in my power to ensure that this concern and priority regarding the children is what will be addressed in the next couple of hours and as we continue to work with Scouting Ireland.

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