Child agency needs a further €17m

The State’s Child and Family Agency has warned that it will need a further €17m in funding to address shortcomings in its frontline social services.

Tusla chief executive Gordon Jeyes appeared before the Oireachtas health committee where he warned that the state agency — established only last year — would need further investment if it is to improve the delivery of its services.

“It is clear that improvement cannot be achieved without investment. At a time of austerity, commitment and dedication have delivered an extraordinary range of improvements. Going forward the capacity to build on these improvements to provide a consis-tent service the length and breath of the country will require continued dedication but also sufficient resources,” he said.