Parents at centre of abuse allegations 'committed to getting their children back'

The parents of two children at the centre of a child care case say they are committed to them and want them returned as soon as possible.

They were supposed to return to the family home last month but their foster parents took legal action amid concerns about sexual abuse allegations.

Day two of this hearing began with news that the Director of Public Prosecutions has decided not to prosecute the natural parents on allegations of sexual abuse.

The allegations were made by their eldest son in March 2014. But Mary O'Toole, who is representing their father, said he indicated he was not telling the truth a few months later.

The boy’s younger siblings were taken into care, but were due to return to the family home last month after Tusla withdrew an application for permanent care orders.

Their foster parents want them to be made wards of court. They also want a full inquiry to be carried out before any reunification takes place.

The children first went into care in March 2012 amid concerns about substance abuse and domestic violence in the family home, but Ms O'Toole said they have since made enormous strides and are committed to getting their children back.

The hearing continues.