News
September 08, 2025
Report on Tusla over circumstances of child missing presumed dead could take a year to complete
Dr Helen Buckley, Chairperson of the National Review Panel, a body which conducts reviews into child deaths and serious incidents, explained the panel will be looking at the review that Tusla will conduct
**Report on Tusla over circumstances of child missing presumed dead could take a year to complete**
A comprehensive review into the circumstances surrounding a child who is missing and presumed dead, and the role played by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, is expected to take up to a year to complete. Dr. Helen Buckley, Chairperson of the National Review Panel, has confirmed the panel will be scrutinizing Tusla's own internal review of the case.
The National Review Panel is an independent body responsible for examining serious incidents, including child deaths, to identify systemic issues and make recommendations for improvements in child protection services. Their involvement highlights the gravity and complexity of this particular case, emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The review process will involve a meticulous examination of all documentation related to the child's involvement with Tusla. This includes case files, meeting minutes, and any other relevant records detailing the agency's interactions with the child and their family. The panel will also likely interview social workers, family members, and other professionals who had contact with the child.
Dr. Buckley explained that the panel’s investigation will not only focus on the immediate events leading up to the child’s disappearance but will also delve into the broader context of the child’s life and the services provided (or not provided) to them. The aim is to identify any potential failings in the system and to learn lessons that can prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.
The length of the review – potentially a year – underscores the complexity of the case and the dedication required to conduct a thorough and meaningful investigation. It also reflects the panel's commitment to ensuring that all relevant information is considered before reaching any conclusions.
The outcome of the review is expected to have significant implications for Tusla and the wider child protection system in Ireland. The National Review Panel's findings and recommendations will be crucial in informing future policy and practice, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding vulnerable children and ensuring that they receive the care and protection they need. The public awaits the results of this investigation with bated breath, hoping for answers and assurances that steps are being taken to prevent similar tragedies from occurring again.
A comprehensive review into the circumstances surrounding a child who is missing and presumed dead, and the role played by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, is expected to take up to a year to complete. Dr. Helen Buckley, Chairperson of the National Review Panel, has confirmed the panel will be scrutinizing Tusla's own internal review of the case.
The National Review Panel is an independent body responsible for examining serious incidents, including child deaths, to identify systemic issues and make recommendations for improvements in child protection services. Their involvement highlights the gravity and complexity of this particular case, emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The review process will involve a meticulous examination of all documentation related to the child's involvement with Tusla. This includes case files, meeting minutes, and any other relevant records detailing the agency's interactions with the child and their family. The panel will also likely interview social workers, family members, and other professionals who had contact with the child.
Dr. Buckley explained that the panel’s investigation will not only focus on the immediate events leading up to the child’s disappearance but will also delve into the broader context of the child’s life and the services provided (or not provided) to them. The aim is to identify any potential failings in the system and to learn lessons that can prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.
The length of the review – potentially a year – underscores the complexity of the case and the dedication required to conduct a thorough and meaningful investigation. It also reflects the panel's commitment to ensuring that all relevant information is considered before reaching any conclusions.
The outcome of the review is expected to have significant implications for Tusla and the wider child protection system in Ireland. The National Review Panel's findings and recommendations will be crucial in informing future policy and practice, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding vulnerable children and ensuring that they receive the care and protection they need. The public awaits the results of this investigation with bated breath, hoping for answers and assurances that steps are being taken to prevent similar tragedies from occurring again.
Category:
Politics