Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I understand that the particular question raised by the Deputy relates to the placement of the child in care under the Child Care Act 1991. While I do not propose to comment on the specific circumstances of the case, I wish to convey once again my deepest sympathy to the family of the child concerned.

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. This includes responsibility for children taken into care. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy.

I understand that a meeting was scheduled to take place on 17th June 2005 at Swords Business Campus. However at the request of the person's legal representative this meeting did not proceed as he requested some time to familiarise himself with files and documents provided. The Local Health Office (LHO) North Dublin report that they have had no further communication from the person or their legal representative since. As always HSE staff from LHO North Dublin remain available to meet for discussion on any or all aspects of this case.