I propose to take Questions Nos. 412, 413, 429, 430 and 431 together.
I would like to thank the Deputy for this question regarding serious incidents in relation to children in the care of the State. 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 operates under guidance, last reviewed by the Department in 2021.
The NRP publishes an Annual Report, which includes an overview of the individual reports on deaths of children in care or known to Tusla over that year. The Annual Report also includes statistical overviews, key findings, and recommendations arising from the reports, as well as an overview of the activities of the NRP for that year. The NRP's Annual Reports can be found on online at: www.tusla.ie/national-review-panel/annual-reports2/ .
