Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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98. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if her Department conducts analysis, or monitors, the reports produced by the National Review Panel, regarding the deaths of children in State care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32445/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The death of a child in care or known to state services, whether at home, in care, or aftercare, is a tragic event that deeply affects family, friends, carers/staff connected to the child and local communities. The National Review Panel (NRP) conducts reviews of child deaths and serious incidents, where the child is in care or is known to Tusla.

The NRP is independent in the performance of its functions, making findings of fact and producing reports that are objective and independent of Tusla. The NRP produces reports that are factually based and identify points of learning to improve services provided to children and families.

I can advise the Deputy that officials from my Department regularly review NRP reports from the context of analysing the quality of services provided directly or indirectly by Tusla to the child or young person concerned. In some instances, follow-up with Tusla may be required. Where this is deemed necessary it can include requests for a written response from Tusla, or a meeting with Tusla officials.

Additionally, NRP reports are reviewed by my Department from the context of driving change and identifying learning and good practice across both Alternative Care and Child Protection and Welfare services.

Where the NRP makes recommendations which fall outside the remit of both my Department and Tusla, officials within my Department ensure that these recommendations are brought to the attention of the appropriate departments or agencies across Government for their attention.