Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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316. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when her attention was frst drawn to the existence of the Tusla files in respect of a person (details supplied); the action she took on learning of the existence of these files; if she alerted any of her Cabinet colleagues at the time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8013/17]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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317. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the name of the data protection officer in Tusla; the actions he or she undertook to ensure the security of personal data and the storing of such to prevent its entry into the public domain in respect of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8014/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 316 and 317 together.

I met with the person referred to on 25th January, 2017 last and heard first hand of their experience with Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. I was informed at that meeting of the existence of files held by Tusla. I was extremely concerned for their individual situation and the serious impact it has had on the person concerned, his wife and their family. This individual case, and the public response to the mistakes made, has shown the necessity that agencies invested with responsibility for such important, sensitive and complex work can be trusted to be both competent and fair in their procedures and practices. I am concerned to know, and the public rightly requires assurance, that all possible measures are taken to ensure that the mistakes acknowledged in this case cannot arise again in Tusla's Child Protection and Welfare Services.

I have asked the Health Information and Quality Authority to undertake an independent Statutory Investigation, under Section 9 of the Health Act 2007, into how Tusla manages allegations of child abuse.

I can confirm that the Tusla Data Controller is Mr. Aidan Waterstone. I have been assured by Tusla that all possible measures are taken ensure that personal information is kept safe and secure as required under Data Protection legislation. Tusla has a responsibility to protect the privacy and wellbeing of the children and families with whom they work.