Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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52. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs his views in relation to the support services made available to children who have been abused in foster care.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7918/16]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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It is important to note that any child welfare or protection issue raised by a child should be dealt with under Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2011). Allegations of abuse can be made against anyone, including foster carers, biological parents, family members, friends, professionals, other children and in some cases, people unknown to the child.

The foster care regulations require an allocated social worker to meet with the child, in private, on a regular basis to talk with the child, including asking about any worries they may have and to work towards the child's ongoing happiness and progress in a placement. Where an allegation or concern is made to a social worker by a child, it is their responsibility to ensure the concern is listened to and to respond accordingly. The immediate safety of the child is always central in responding to any allegation of physical, emotional, sexual abuse and neglect. Following an allegation the overall safety of the child is considered. Where possible, they will remain with their foster carers to allow for stability and ongoing support in such circumstances. The allocated social worker will also review the child's care plan and arrange for specialist assessments to determine what therapeutic or medical services are required.

Support is provided to the child making the allegation by their social worker. If one of the 7% of children in foster care without an allocated social worker (407 children at the end of January 2016) makes an allegation of abuse a social worker will be immediately allocated to ensure that all their needs are met and the proper support can be given in such difficult times. Where abuse has been alleged by a child living in foster care, the link social worker will ensure the foster carers can support the child to the best of their ability. The Child and Family Agency, Tusla notifies all allegations of abuse to An Garda Síochána.

All children, not just children in care, who have been sexually abused have two distinct needs in relation to services. The first need is timely access to specialist assessment, including, if necessary, medical/forensic services and where sexual abuse is validated, children need a therapeutic response shaped to their needs. Their families and carers also need support and guidance at this time. It is vital that all agencies involved in assessment, investigation and providing support and therapeutic services to children and their families work together. The HSE, Tusla and CARI (a voluntary based organisation) along with others, provide counselling, therapeutic and family support to children who have been abused sexually.