Promise to fill 60 social worker posts

WITH referrals to child protection teams expected to top 25,000 by year end, Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald has reiterated her commitment to hire 60 additional social workers in 2011, despite HSE claims to the contrary.

Earlier this month, the HSE admitted its continuing recruitment process stopped short of signing contracts of employment. A recruitment “pause”, it said, would last until the end of December.

However, yesterday, Ms Fitzgerald said she had received personal assurances from Gordon Jeyes, HSE national director of children, that the posts would be filled in December. Funding of €3.8 million has been earmarked.