Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I know this is an issue that the Minister is deeply committed to addressing as well. He will be aware that within the programme for Government there is a very clear commitment to provide for therapeutic services, particularly for children in the care of Tusla. The Government is developing its plans about expanding and developing the child and adolescent mental health services, CAMHS, and it is increasing the number of medical and other interventions for young people and, indeed, support for their families. I commend the Minister on his work.

However, we need to look at that question of the broader range of therapies that are available, and particularly for children in care, many of whom who may have complex needs. It is about ensuring they have access to appropriate counselling and therapy. Those services are essential.

A quite successful programme has been operated by Tusla in the north inner city in Dublin, as the Minister will be aware. The child art psychotherapy programme allows children and young people, through use of creative means, such as art, painting and drawing, to express themselves. It has worked quite well. The Minister will be aware of the recent Growing Up in Ireland survey, the latest iteration of which was just published by the ESRI, which reported the impact that the past two years have had on children and young people. There are increasing numbers of young people reporting poor mental health. The Minister will also be aware that last week Women’s Aid reported on what has happened during the Covid period in terms of the number of reports it received, and particularly the impact on children and young people. There were a number of frightening statistics, however, one stands out. Women’s Aid reported that over the Covid period, 5,400 child abuse or suspected child abuse reports were made. It is important that we provide, as much as possible, the broadest range of supports. We have a very clear commitment within the programme for Government to do that. I hope that the Minister will be able to outline what progress has been made in that regard.