Imelda Henry (Fine Gael)

This Ministry is one of the most important ones and I compliment Deputy Fitzgerald on her work in it to date.

The Child Care (Amendment) Bill provides for the High Court to have statutory jurisdiction to hear applications by the HSE for special care orders or interim special care orders and related matters in respect of children where their welfare may require their detention in a special care unit. The Bill also provides that special care units will be inspected under the Health Act 2007 and for the dissolution of the Children Acts Advisory Board.

These are positive and welcome amendments to the legislation. It was a Fine Gael-Labour Party Government priority to have this legislation passed by the Oireachtas as quickly as possible.

I also welcome the Minister's announcement that failure to abide by laws which would force the disclosure of information on child neglect or abuse will result in tough sanctions such as fines or jail terms. It is vital all organisations and individuals working with children share information with authorities relating to child welfare concerns. The Minister for Justice and Equality is preparing legislation which will make it a criminal offence to withhold information relating to sexual abuse or other serious offences against a child or vulnerable adult.