Garda Tusla Probe Sparks Political Firestorm: Aontú Leader Tells KFM That Minister Roderic O'Gorman Should Resign

Thursday, 29 February 2024 16:16

By Martin Osborne

Kfm has contacted the Department of Children and Tusla for comment.

Aontú Leader Peadar Tóibín TD has told Kfm that he believes the Minister for Children, Roderic O’Gorman, should resign amidst revelations regarding the mishandling of childcare services.

Tóibín's call came following the exposure of a private company, currently under Garda investigation, for allegedly falsifying vetting documents while providing accommodation to children in State care.

Deputy Tóibín said there are "troubling issues" within the system, citing admissions from Tusla, the child and family agency, that children were being placed in unregulated emergency accommodations, costing the state €90 million.

He highlighted alarming incidents such as the abduction of a 14-year-old girl, who fell victim to criminal exploitation while under Tusla's care, indicating systemic failures.

Tóibín brought attention to efforts to raise concerns, including those by retired Judge Simms, whose reports were allegedly deleted by the Department of Children, citing GDPR.

Kfm has contacted the Department of Children and Tusla for comment.

Tusla has offices in Celbridge and Athy.

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