Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. I appreciate his response and that he will give a more comprehensive response at a later stage. I raised this issue because William is in a different place since 2016. He now lives happily with his son and daughter in Donegal on a permanent basis. The impact this has had on all three of them has been immeasurable. William wants to go public with his experience. He wants to do all he can to prevent other families going through what he went through and I have great respect for him in doing this.

Tusla has admitted that the impact of their intervention on this family has been significant and that its delays in responding to the concerns have been a part of this negative impact on the family. I understand those working in social and children's services have the most difficult of jobs and that mistakes can be made by all of us, including people in Tusla. However, this is an exceptional case that had significant consequences. It is not just the mistake; it is the time it took for William Poster's issue to be resolved and for him to have his name cleared. That needs to be highlighted. It took three years from the original accusation. Even if this was not a false accusation, which it was, why did it take three years for this accusation to be investigated? William and his family were put through a decade of hell because of false accusations and repeatedly not being believed. During this time, William's reputation was destroyed, his business ceased and he lost access to his daughter. He developed significant mental and physical health problems and we can never underestimate the impact this has on somebody and their family.

I understand that significant changes have been made to Tusla and how the Garda approach such matters since these events. Have the appropriate actions been taken to ensure such a failing does not happen ever again? That is what William wants and that is why I am raising this. We cannot underestimate the impact this has on families. Like the Minister, I also commend all of those in Tusla who do a massive job, and I know William does not want to cast aspersions. We recognise Tusla is made up of really passionate people who care for families and children. In this case, systems broke down, accusations were made and a family was destroyed. The family will continue to live with the consequences, even though apologies and compensation have been made, and errors have been corrected.

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