Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

647. To ask the Minister for Health the person or body monitoring assessment and therapy services for children, young persons and their families in circumstances in which sexual abuse is a concern; the measures being taken to ensure best international standards of practice are being followed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30773/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Department of Children and Youth Affairs is responsible for developing the policy and legislative framework in relation to child welfare and protection.  The Department also has oversight of Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, regarding the implementation of policy and the effective delivery of child welfare and protection services.

Tusla has a primary responsibility to promote the safety and well-being of children.

Earlier this year the Department of Children and Youth Affairs(DCYA) set up a cross Department steering group to assess the feasibility of setting up child advocacy centres in Ireland with the objective of reducing trauma being experienced by children and their families as a result of child sexual abuse. The Department of Health is represented on this group. The group expects to report by the end of the year.