423 referrals over child asylum seekers

MORE than 420 child protection referrals were made to the HSE because of concerns over children living in state-funded hostels for asylum seekers last year.

The 423 referrals included incidents of physical abuse or assault, inappropriate sexual behaviour, mental health issues, children left unsupervised or parents not being able to cope.

Five children living in direct provision were taken into care by the HSE last year.