Zappone must act on findings of HIQA reports on special care units for children.
Labour Spokesperson on Children, Sean Sherlock TD, has called on Minister Katherine Zappone to outline what actions will be taken to address the issues raised in reports by HIQA into special care units.
Commenting today Deputy Sherlock said:
“Today there were five reports published by HIQA following the inspection of Tusla managed special care units.
“The reports highlight a number of ongoing issues within the centers which have to be addressed. These include the needs of each child not been taken into account with regard to the policy of locking doors throughout the units, locking all bedroom doors at night and setting bedtimes for children.
“Children in two of the units were not given opportunities to participate in meaningful activities appropriate to their needs and wishes.
“Three of the four centers inspected have delays in securing an onward placement for the children which has the potential to undermine the progress that had been made with them.
“There were also issues surrounding management structures in three of the centers inspected.
“Minister Katherine Zappone has ultimate responsibility for the governance and management arrangments for Tusla, which is responsible for the safe and effective running of these centers. I think in light of the finds in these reports Minister Zappone should speak to how she and her Department intend to secure that these issues are addressed by Tulsa.