A children's charity says children are often referred because of abuse or neglect.

The children’s charity said the report from the Public Accounts Committee containing the finding prompted questions as to other ways the money could have been spent, including on intensive Family Support Services.

WE AT Epic, the only independent organisation in Ireland working on behalf of children in care and those who have left the care system, strongly support the proposed Children First Bill which will place a mandatory obligation on professionals to report any suspected child abuse and welfare concerns.