Ombudsman Warns Tusla Underinvestment Impacts Services Amid 125% Referral Surge

The Ombudsman for Children, Dr. Niall Muldoon, has warned that underinvestment in Tusla could hinder its ability to meet demand, citing a 125% increase in referrals and an expanded remit over 10 years. In April correspondence to Minister for Children Norma Foley, Muldoon called for a review of Tusla's funding, emphasizing its essential role in child protection and welfare.

Muldoon highlighted additional challenges including a decline in foster carers and social workers, a shortage of alternative care places, and the war in Ukraine. The ombudsman's office remains concerned about Tusla's funding, especially given recent reports of departments being levied to address a €646 million deficit in the Department of Education. They urged the government, in preparation for Budget 2027, to ensure sufficient resourcing for Tusla.

Separately, Muldoon has consistently advocated for incorporating part of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child into domestic law, calling it the «single most important action» for safeguarding children's rights. Minister Foley informed him in March that barriers to ratification had been overcome, and necessary measures would be prepared, a step the ombudsman's office insists must be completed this year.

Muldoon is also pressing for a pay increase for his role, and for his successor when his term ends next February. He argues the salary should be equivalent to an assistant secretary grade (€196,000 annually), as it was from 2004 to 2014, citing increased responsibilities and scrutiny. He currently earns €130,000.