FAMILIES AND friends of children who died in the State’s care system have called for the removal of responsibility for childcare from the HSE.
At least 21 vulnerable young people have died while in the care of the State over the past decade, more than half as a result of drug overdoses or suicide.
In a march to Leinster House yesterday, dozens of protesters carried images of young people who, they say, were never provided with proper care and support. The protesters urged Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children Barry Andrews to take action on the HSE’s role in childcare.
The images included those of Danny Talbot (19), David Foley (17) and Tracey Fay (18), as well as banners with slogans such as: “Take childcare away from the HSE”; “How many more will die?”; and “Minister, where are your reports into child deaths?”
Protesters also wore T-shirts with the images of young people in care who have died.
Sandra Lamb and her sister Donna, who organised the march, said the protest was aimed at highlighting the plight of “forgotten children”, as well as others who remain at risk.
Their nephew Danny Talbot (19) died in recent months from a suspected drugs overdose. He spent most of his life in the care system and was in receipt of aftercare from the HSE when he died of a drugs overdose.
“There are so many vulnerable young people out there at risk, but no one seems to be listening,” said Sandra Lamb. “This march is for all those who have been forgotten by the health boards and for those who haven’t got a voice and still aren’t being heard.”
The protesters also called on the Minister to ensure reports into child deaths are published and to establish an inquiry into the handling of Danny Talbot’s case.
Following a private meeting with the protest organisers, Mr Andrews said there was a review of how child deaths are being handled and he would discuss their request for an inquiry with senior managers in the HSE.