Tipperary TD condemns Tusla and HSE failures in child protection

Rural Independent Leader and Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath has issued a strong condemnation of Tusla and the HSE following the release of the Child Law Project report, highlighting severe systemic failures in child protection.

 "The report lays bare the unacceptable cracks in our child protection system," McGrath stated speaking in the Dáil last night.

"Tusla's inability to provide adequate care placements and the HSE's failure to deliver essential mental health services are putting vulnerable children at grave risk."

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McGrath criticized the lack of progress despite substantial funding: "With over €1 billion allocated to Tusla, it is shocking that basic child welfare needs remain unmet. The increase in referrals, now over 91,000 annually, underscores a system overwhelmed and underperforming."

He also highlighted issues with interagency cooperation: "The persistent communication breakdowns between Tusla and the HSE are inexcusable. These agencies must collaborate effectively to protect children from falling through the cracks."

McGrath concluded by calling for immediate reform: "We need urgent action to address these failures. The government must prioritize child protection and ensure that Tusla and the HSE are held accountable for their responsibilities."

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