John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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484. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of cases or complaints involving Tusla and its clients or the parents of clients alleging false allegations of sexual abuse made by social workers in the south-east area; if there are cases dating back to 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29075/18]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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In cases where a referral is made to Tusla with an allegation that a child has been sexually abused, the welfare and protection of the child must be the primary concern. Where an allegation is made by an adult about abuse they suffered as a child, Tusla's role is to try to identify if there are any children who could be at current risk from the alleged abuser.

Tusla are required to assess every allegation they receive, and to determine whether the allegation is credible. Allegations deemed to be credible then proceed to preliminary assessment.

Where allegations proceed to preliminary assessment, the alleged abuser is entitled to fair procedures. They have the right to be informed that an allegation has been made, who has made the allegation and the nature of the allegation, and to have an opportunity to respond to Tusla in relation to the allegation.

Tusla's concern is the protection of vulnerable children, and they do not have a role in investigation or prosecution of crimes. These roles lie with An Garda Síochána and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

I have written to Tusla to request the data sought and I have asked them to reply directly to the Deputy. I would note that Tusla was set up in January 2014, and prior to this the services were provided by the Health Service Executive.