Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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Question 47: To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the percentage of children in care with a care plan during this quarter and each quarter of each of the past four years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19899/11]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The HSE compiles monthly performance reports which provide an overall analysis of key performance data from finance, HR, hospital and primary and community services. The most recent published report states that 89% of children in care had a written care plan in April 2011. Monthly performance reports for the period from 2008-April 2011 are available at http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/Publications/corporate/performancereports/HSE_Monthly_Performance_Reports_.html. I have asked the HSE to provide the information in relation to 2007 directly.

Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 48: To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to work with the Department of Health and the Department of Social Protection in order to help reduce the numbers of children who enter the care system due to the financial difficulties of their families rather than any abuse faced, or risk of abuse. [19884/11]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Under the child Care Act 1991 children should, in the first instance, be supported to remain with their families. Children should only be taken into care where the HSE has identified abuse or the risk of abuse, including neglect that cannot be prevented or resolved without the child being received into care. My officials have met with officials of the Department of Social Protection to identify if there are any cases in which children enter the care system due to financial need rather than cases of abuse or the risk of abuse. Where any such cases are identified, my officials will work with the Department of Social Protection and the HSE to ensure that children are only received into care on the basis of risk to their safety and welfare that cannot be alleviated by financial support alone.