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

As the Deputy indicated, the amount I was able to receive in the budget to increase Tusla’s resources was allocated within a very tight budgetary space. It was an important achievement to get that additional sum of money for Tusla. I am aware of ways in which it is examining the numbers and cost of the agency staff it utilises because of the difficulties experienced in the recruitment of new social workers. It is a high cost and Tusla is considering ways by which that cost can be brought down. I have had significant engagement with it in that regard. Perhaps I might say a little more about it in response to other questions. There are additional resources available and the agency is considering other ways to save money, as well as to increase the number of permanent social work staff.

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