An in-depth investigation by RTÉ has uncovered serious and ongoing failures within Ireland’s family law and child care system, highlighting the experiences of some of the country’s most vulnerable young people.
Over the past year, RTÉ Investigates has gained rare access to the system, documenting what many describe as a worsening crisis. Young people who have lived in State care shared their personal stories, painting a picture of instability, isolation, and inadequate support.
Ireland currently has around 5,900 children in State care, most of whom are placed in foster homes or regulated residential centres. However, a shortage of suitable placements has led to increasing reliance on controversial arrangements known as Special Emergency Arrangements (SEAs). These placements often involve unregulated settings such as rented properties, hotels, or B&Bs, which are not subject to inspection by authorities despite being funded by the State.
One young person, Malak, described being kept in an adolescent psychiatric unit longer than necessary due to the lack of an available placement. After eventually being moved into multiple care settings, including SEAs, he struggled with isolation and distress, at one point taking an overdose during a transfer.
Others shared similar experiences. Aaron, who entered care at nine years old, said he was placed in around 20 different settings, many of them hotel rooms. He described a life of constant movement, loneliness, and poor living conditions. Eventually, he experienced homelessness and spent time in a psychiatric unit.
The financial cost of SEAs is also significant. According to Tusla’s CEO, these placements can cost the State an average of €750,000 per child annually, raising concerns about accountability and value for money.
Legal professionals and former judges have criticised the system. Retired Judge Dermot Simms said conditions have deteriorated in recent years, despite previous warnings to government officials. He argued that children placed in SEAs are not receiving appropriate care in safe, regulated environments.
Concerns have also been raised about the safety of young people in these placements. One court case detailed a teenage girl who, while in an SEA, was repeatedly reported missing and later allegedly sexually assaulted. Despite the risks, she remained in the same arrangement due to a lack of alternatives.
Many young people described the emotional toll of constantly being moved between placements. Feelings of instability, anxiety, and lack of belonging were common. Some compared their experience to being treated like “an Amazon parcel,” moved from place to place without consideration for their wellbeing.
The challenges often continue into adulthood. While Tusla has a legal responsibility to support care leavers, access to aftercare varies. Those who pursue education may receive accommodation and financial support, but others can fall through the cracks. Several young people reported experiencing homelessness after leaving care, particularly when they struggled with mental health or education.
Experts say early intervention is also lacking. Some families had long-standing contact with social services before children were eventually taken into care, raising questions about missed opportunities to provide support sooner.
In response, Tusla acknowledged the issues raised, stating that the experiences described are “not acceptable” and highlighting ongoing efforts to increase placement capacity. However, the agency also noted the growing demand for its services and the challenges this presents.
For advocates and professionals working in the system, the findings serve as a stark warning.
The accounts shared in the RTÉ investigation underline the urgent need for reform to ensure that vulnerable children receive safe, stable, and appropriate care.
