What happens to children when the State cannot provide a safe place?

New court reports detail children facing abuse, neglect and exploitation, while experts warn of shortages across Ireland’s care system

'Scrutinise Tusla, absolutely, and expect improvements where they are needed, but Government must also be held accountable for whether it has provided the investment, infrastructure and long-term political commitment necessary for Tusla to actually fulfil its responsibilities to children.'

Day after day, in children’s courts across the country, stories of abuse, sexual violence, criminal exploitation and addiction are heard.

Children, as young as infants are taken into care, sometimes with orders in place for the entirety of their childhood.