Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I spent some time speaking about what Tusla is doing to mitigate current risk because that is Tusla's primary role. I am not taking away from anything the Senator said but that is the job of Tusla, namely, to deal with current risk.The role of dealing with historic abuse - "past abuse" is probably a better term in many ways - lies with An Garda Síochána through prosecution.

We are aware of the concerns that have been raised. As to the degree of significance the Senator outlined, I had not heard that expression regarding prevalence before. We are taking steps. We are not just examining the region where the initial issue was flagged and the victim, whom we both have been in contact with, was from. Rather, we are examining the organisation nationally. That will help us to establish whether there are more causes for concern and further action.

I am happy to continue engaging with the Senator. My colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, has done a great deal of work on this matter.