Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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251. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the steps she has taken to address the potential shortcomings highlighted by the Special Rapporteur for Children in respect of the legal basis for children that are the subject of a section 12 order to be handed into the care of a private foster provider. [41157/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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In May I welcomed the publication of Dr Geoffrey Shannon’s audit into the use of section 12 of the Child Care Act 1991 by An Garda Síochána. The report was undertaken by Dr Shannon on behalf of An Garda Síochána and correspondingly most of the recommendations made by Dr Shannon relate to Garda practice and procedures.

A number of recommendations were made by Dr Shannon which merit further consideration by my Department. Accordingly, my officials are currently examining the relevant issues raised by Dr Shannon. Clarification has also been sought from Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, regarding the Agency’s procedures in relation to the use of private providers of emergency foster care placements. When this clarification has been received, my Department, in conjunction with the Child and Family Agency, will consider what further action on this matter is required.