HSE special care units are failing more than half of the troubled children who have been placed there, according to a report which raises serious questions about the HSE’s capacity to help vulnerable young people in care.

IT is unfortunate that the Health Service Executive is the focus of a damning report again this morning but the failures uncovered are so great that it cannot be ignored.

THE report into the death of Tracey Fay raises the question of who was in charge of the tragic teenager’s care.

THE statutory body which advises on the appointment of legal advisers in childcare proceedings has claimed new legislation could saddle Guardian ad Litems with massive legal bills.

MORE than three-quarters of children who are involved in court proceedings do not have their voice heard due to the lack of a specially appointed adviser.

THE name of the boat, Charge Sheet, moored in Malahide yesterday provided a wry clue to the background of the young men who painstakingly restored the vessel over the past 12 months.

NINE out of 10 children of criminals end up with a conviction themselves, according to research presented at a conference yesterday examining the needs of young people whose parents are sent to prison.

Child protection will be one of the topics discussed at a major two-day conference opening today in Kilkenny.

Workers providing services and supports to children and young people will be recognised at an awards ceremony launched today.

A NEW advisory board that will co-ordinate services for troubled teenagers and children was launched yesterday.