Written answers

Wednesday, 6 May 2015

Department of Children and Youth Affairs

Unfair Dismissals

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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284. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs his views on correspondence (details supplied) in relation to an unfair dismissal case, in which standard procedure was not adhered to by the family support agency involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17889/15]

Photo of James ReillyJames Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Centre in question is funded by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. The Family Resource Centres are independent companies limited by guarantee and are managed by a Voluntary Board of Management representative of the local community. In order to receive funding, the Family Resource Centres are required to have formal policies and procedures in place in relation to a number of areas, including Corporate Governance and Employment.

The decision to dismiss the person in question was made by the Voluntary Board of Management of this particular Resource Centre. Prior to this, Tusla had supported a number of efforts to address issues arising at the Centre over recent years. This included the appointment of an independent investigator in 2013 and, following the completion of the investigation in 2014, the appointment of an independent facilitator to progress matters. However, the Voluntary Board of Management has advised Tusla that over this period there were continuing difficulties.

The Voluntary Board of Management has now advised Tusla, that regrettably, the Centre has closed temporarily due to ongoing difficulties relating to this matter. Tusla is meeting with the Board to discuss the future of the Centre, having regard to Tusla's priorities in relation to the needs of children and families in the local community.

As I have advised previously, Tusla is committed to the continuation of funding for the Centre, and I hope that these difficulties can be resolved as soon as possible.

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