Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. One of the voluntary services about which I am speaking is Streetline, which has been in operation for more than 30 years with really positive results. It is based in the community in the north inner city, where it has engagement with other community and youth groups, which is important for the children in its care. This service presents an alternate family situation. It has been told that it must align with the Peter McVerry Trust. This is not a criticism of the Peter McVerry Trust but it has a different value system to the Streetline service. As I said, Streetline has been told that if it does not align with the Peter McVerry Trust, its funding will cease. Tusla has stopped making referrals to Streetline at a time when there is great need. Currently, this service has three vacancies in its under 18s section, three vacancies in its aftercare section and there will be no more referrals until such time as it complies with what Tusla wants. I have fears in regard to open consultation if this is what has been decided. Everybody cannot fit into the same box. We can address needs in different ways. Streetline has been addressing needs for more than 30 years. It would be a shame were it to be forced to fit into a box that is not an easy fit.

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