Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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95. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of times she has met with the CEO of Tusla since she took office. [61892/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I can assure the Deputy that both I and my Department have open lines of communication with the Chairperson of Tusla, its Board, its CEO, its Management Board and the broader organisation.

I met with the CEO on dates in February, May, September, September, October and November of this year.

I also met with the Chairperson of the Board and other Board members earlier today, 12th November and on the 7th of May, and the CEO attended these meetings, along with Departmental Officials as well as other Tusla Officials.

In addition to regular scheduled meetings that promote mutual understanding of operations and support sound governance and performance oversight of Tusla, we arrange meetings and calls at short notice to address topical and important issues as they arise.

I have had regular phone calls with the CEO including on dates in February, July, September, October and November.

I continue to engage regularly with Tusla about a number of serious events that were widely reported and of great concern to the public. The key focus of these meetings and calls has been to understand Tusla’s position on these matters of great concern, to determine the steps needed in addressing them including the Department’s contribution and input.

As you may be aware, on an annual basis I produce my performance statement for Tusla and a performance framework on a three year cycle.

These are key bodies of work that allow me to give direction to Tusla and inform actions in their subsequent Business plan and Corporate Strategy respectively.

Also in place is a comprehensive Oversight Agreement that is currently being updated as well as a number of subgroups that the Department Officials attend as well as regular bilateral engagement.

I recognise the challenging work Tusla does and am eager to work with the CEO and Tusla Board in further supporting and developing the Agency.