Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. While I welcome the implementation of a number of measures to protect vulnerable people, including the revised national safeguarding policy, what happened to Grace, and what was allowed to happen to Grace and other young people who suffered abuse in the same foster home, is shameful. The fact that the DPP did not follow the recommendations of the Garda is scandalous, as is the fact that we do not know why that happened. It is, however, good to hear that Grace is receiving support now. It is also good to hear about the new governance mechanisms within the HSE.

The confidential recipients in the HSE are an important channel for confidential concerns and disclosures, and that is welcome. However, it is clear there is a legislative gap here. There is no primary legislation that specifically holds officials and managers to account for covering up abuse and for failing to act on abuse. There is no doubt that we need clarity on whether legislative reform is planned in that respect.

I thank the Minister of State for coming to the House but I still feel there are questions that need to be answered.