Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

I appreciate all the points the Deputy raised. I do want to say that it is not just the setting up of the check and putting in place the independent steering group and all that. Engagement has also taken place with other Government Departments to explore opportunities for appropriate data sharing to establish where the children encompassed by this review are currently or recently known to the relevant State services or State-funded service.

On other things that have been done, the national lead has been appointed, a well-being check team manager has been appointed, a digital case management system is in place to support the work of the teams and so forth. Again, I can confirm that I have met with the chair of the independent steering group on her appointment and, indeed, I will be doing so again in advance of the commencement of phase 2. As I already mentioned, there is funding of €3.2 million being made available.

The Deputy referenced other measures that could be done. I will shortly be bringing forward a Bill updating and modernising the Child Care Act, which provides the foundation for child protection and welfare services in the State. This will strengthen the child protection legal framework and the powers available to Tusla. I also intend to bring forward amendments via the childcare Bill 2025 to place the national review panel on a statutory footing. This will further enhance the work of the national review panel and will strengthen its independence and ability to compel information and witnesses in respect of all reviews that it undertakes.

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