Tusla took ‘unprecedented’ steps to accommodate most vulnerable minor in the State

Details of the case are being reported for the first time after Mr Justice Barniville directed the easing of stringent reporting restrictions in the proceedings

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, took “exceptional” and “unprecedented” steps to place a child it considered to be the most vulnerable minor in the State in a secure care facility earlier this year, the High Court has heard.

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, took “exceptional” and “unprecedented” steps to place a child it considered to be the most vulnerable minor in the State in a secure care facility earlier this year.

Tusla took the steps following orders granted by High Court president Mr Justice David Barniville providing for the child’s care and detention at the secure care unit − one of three such “special care” facilities in the State used to care for highly vulnerable children.