Lack of social workers ‘puts children at risk’ of neglect and physical or sexual abuse

Almost one in five children waiting more than a month for a dedicated social worker is in serious danger of neglect and physical or sexual abuse, it has emerged.

Sinn Féin TD, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, told the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children, he was very concerned that a “staggering” 5,585 children were waiting over a month to be allocated a social worker.

Mr Ó Caoláin said 1,087 of the children were classified as “high risk” and called on Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, to address the issue so as to avoid excessive delays.