Warnings that Tusla will not be able to cope after mandatory reporting is introduced

There are warnings that Tusla will not be able to cope with the increase in its workload after mandatory reporting is introduced.

The measure will mean people will be able to report cases of suspected abuse directly to the Child and Family Agency.

There are fears it will have an adverse impact on children already in care, after a similar measure in Australia saw complaints increase by 600%.

Fianna Fáil TD Anne Rabbitte, has said we need to ensure that Tusla is properly resourced so it can provide a good service.

"The volume of people making referrals is going to increase dramatically," she said.

"The front line staff are going to be over worked from the amount of referrals that are going to be brought forward.

Tusla has been under strain and stress for the last number of months and years, mandatory reporting, while it will be very welcome it is going to put an awful strain on them (workers)."