Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 September 2026
662. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality If Tusla will consider seeking an interim care order or any other appropriate protective measures in respect of children (details supplied). [68661/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that Tusla is required by law to be independent in its work as set out in Section 8(11) of the Child and Family Agency Act 2013. It would not be appropriate for the Department to interfere with the professional judgement of Tusla staff in relation to specific cases.
In addition, Court oversight of the granting of care orders under the Child Care Act 1991, including interim care orders, is a key aspect of upholding the rights of parents and families, and ensuring that children are taken into care only where it is found that they are unlikely to receive the care or protection they need unless a Court makes a care order in respect of that child.
As Minister, I have no role in the seeking or granting of interim care orders.
If you or your constituent has concerns about a child, they should contact Tusla directly: https://www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/duty-social-work-teams/
