Tusla hearing at PAC highlights safeguarding issues in Louth

Local Sinn Féin TD Joanna Byrne has said that the recent Tusla hearing at the Public Accounts Committee has shone a light on massive gaps in child safeguarding in Louth.

Speaking after the hearing Deputy Byrne said “The hearing was obviously going to be a difficult and emotional one at times with several committee members raising the disappearance and death of Daniel Aruebose and the disappearance of Kyran Durnin. Both of these children were in services with Tusla around the same time in Louth. 

“They referenced that the internal report into Kyran had many things that they have learned from, but none of this will matter unless Tusla has the resources in Louth to deal with cases that arise here.

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“I was beyond shocked to hear that Louth, our wee county, which has only the 12th highest population in this state, is the 3rd or 4th busiest county for Tusla. That means they must have the appropriate staff here to deal with so many cases. But Tusla also said that Louth does not have enough social workers or social care workers. They also pointed to the fact that Louth does not have the community supports that other areas have. 

“This is completely unacceptable to me and the people of Louth. We must have assurances that those gaps will be filled, and that qualified staff are in place here. 

Finishing Deputy Byrne said “Tusla have offered to meet me to go over the issues in Louth, and I will make sure that meeting happens in the coming weeks.

“I will pursue this matter through every avenue available to ensure that there are adequate protections for children in Louth.