Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive response. In particular I welcome the clear commitment that from the third quarter of this year, all children and young people newly admitted to care will have a multidisciplinary assessment and care plan completed. It is not only important that a care plan is completed but also that it is implemented and that the supports are put in place. Coming out of the Covid pandemic period, we do not know what its full impact will be and how that may manifest itself in certain areas. However, we must make sure that every child is allowed to have as full a childhood as possible and where children face difficulties or have complex needs, the State will step in and support them, including through the provision of counselling and therapeutic services. It is not only that a care plan is provided but that it is also followed through and the necessary supports are put in place. I know the Minister is committed to doing that but if we were to give that guarantee to every child, it would be very welcome.