Lack of foster carers across much of the country, says Hiqa

Backlogs of long-term matching of children with their foster carers were reported in the majority of the areas inspected.

Health watchdog Hiqa has said staffing across some Tusla services is still a concern, with Covid-19 bringing additional complications in some areas, while there are still not enough foster carers available in much of the country.

The Health Information and Quality Authority published its overview report on the inspection and regulation of children’s services last year, outlining significant improvements in many areas, but ongoing issues in others.