HSE seeks Garda clarity on reports

The HSE has again contacted senior gardaí for clarity on whether it can publish two reports into allegations of serious sexual and physical abuse at a partially State-funded foster home.

The Department of Health confirmed the situation last night after the HSE sent a “comprehensive” response on whether it can publish the files, which had been requested by Finian McGrath, the disabilities minister.

In response to the Government-commissioned Conor Dignam report into serious abuse allegations in a Waterford foster home between 1989 and 2013, Mr McGrath last month gave the HSE until yesterday to clarify its position on whether it can release the records.