Judge Calls Tusla's Hotel Placement of 14-Year-Old «Outrageous»
Judge Adrian Harris criticized Tusla's «outrageous» placement of a 14-year-old in care, who was moved between hotels across Ireland. The child's disruptive behavior led to unstable housing, prompting concerns about the effectiveness of state care. Tusla admitted the situation was untenable, while parents stated they could not take the child back.
Judge Adrian Harris at the Family Law Court described Tusla's placement of a 14-year-old in care as «outrageous» and «unbelievable». The teenager, under an emergency care order secured last month, has been moved between hotels across the country, often not knowing the location.
The Guardian ad Litem (GaL) stated Tusla sought an interim care order extension despite failing to provide suitable placements. The Tusla social care worker reported the child's disruptive behavior led to placements in Co Limerick and Dublin becoming unavailable, resulting in stays in Limerick, Dublin, and Portlaoise hotels.
Judge Harris questioned if state care was doing more harm, noting the child had been in care for a month. Tusla solicitor Kevin Sherry admitted the situation was untenable. The parents' solicitor, Mary Cuffe, said Tusla suggested they take the child back, which was impossible as the child had previously destroyed their unrepaired home.