Tusla referrals reach 18-month high as case backlog increases

Tusla's monthly report also shows a rise in the number of mandated reports of abuse received by the Child and Family Agency.

The number of child welfare and protection referrals made to Tusla in May jumped to its highest level in more than 18 months, alongside a rise in the number of cases awaiting allocation to a social worker.

The monthly report for May from the Child and Family Agency said 7,607 referrals were received in May 2022, 24% more than in April and 33% more than May last year.