Written answers

Tuesday, 22 March 2005

Department of Health and Children

Services for People with Disabilities

8:00 pm

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 58: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason children with autism and other disabilities can be taken into care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8618/05]

Photo of Enda KennyEnda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 125: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the circumstances of a case (details supplied), in which children were taken into care and later released by order of the court; her further views on the circumstances that led to the decision to take these children into respite care and on whether this decision was justified; if she has satisfied herself with the treatment and condition of the children during the weekend in question; and if she will make a statement in relation to the future arrangements and facilities to be provided for these children in the care of their parents. [9233/05]

Photo of Brian Lenihan JnrBrian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 125 together.

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for services for the welfare and protection of children and for disability services.

While it would not be appropriate for me to comment on an individual case I would like to state the following. Under the Child Care Act 1991, as amended by the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive has a duty to act in relation to any child who requires care or protection. On the application of the Health Service Executive care orders are made in the District Court, only where the judge is satisfied that this is an appropriate course of action.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.