Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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55. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the status of ongoing reforms in practices for dealing with adult disclosure of child sexual abuse cases by Tusla; if she or officials in her Department have any concerns over the way in which these cases are being dealt with by Tusla; and her views on whether any regulatory or legislative changes are required in this area. [33339/16]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has advised that its current policy relating to adult disclosure of child sexual abuse cases, "Policy & Procedures for Responding to Allegations of Child Abuse & Neglect (2014)", is currently being reviewed. It is expected that the policy will be supported by additional guidance and training for staff when the review is completed and an implementation plan has been finalised.

I am aware that the handling of retrospective disclosures is a complex issue, and have raised this issue with Tusla senior management during meetings. I have emphasised the importance of dealing with cases as soon as possible, while recognising the practical difficulties that can often arise in relation to alleged events of many years ago. I have asked to be informed of the challenges Tusla face in its efforts to protect children, while preserving a person’s right to natural justice and fair procedure, where there is an allegation involved. Tusla will and does act on behalf of the child where there is a credible report of risk involved.

Children First guidance includes a description of retrospective disclosures, and makes clear that any current concerns about children which come to light should be reported to child welfare and protection services.

Tusla is undertaking a full review of all referrals of allegations of retrospective abuse. This review is looking at all referrals to establish their priority for action. I am expecting this review to conclude later in the year and I have requested Tusla to keep me up to date on its progress and on any emerging issues of concern. Tusla has identified specialist staff to undertake this work nationally.

My Department has begun a process to review the Child Care Act 1991, as amended, and is currently sourcing information on any aspect of the handling of allegations of abuse that might be examined as part of this review.