Spike in child welfare reports expected now that schools have returned

Children returning to school as lockdown eases. Picture: Martin Rickett/PA Wire

Tusla expects to see a spike in child welfare and protection referrals now that schools have reopened, but said it would be some time before there is any indication was to whether there might be an increase in absenteeism or school dropout following a second lengthy lockdown during the school year.

The CEO of Barnardos, Suzanne Connolly, warned that early school leaving could rise with some vulnerable children less likely to re-enter the education system after the lengthy lockdown, which meant schools were closed for January and February.