Courts / Ireland / Report

Couple challenge decision to inform Garda vetting bureau of abuse allegations

Summary

A couple who have fostered children have taken the High Court to challenge a notification by the Child and Family Agency (CFA) that they may pose a risk to children and vulnerable persons. After a foster placement ended last year, the CFA informed the couple that it was starting the first stage of its Child Abuse Substantiation Procedure, which involves assessing whether allegations against them have been substantiated. The couple were also told that the CFA had notified the Garda Vetting Bureau of the allegations, including child abuse. The couple deny any wrongdoing and claim they were not given details of the allegations. Their lawyers question the CFA's authority to notify the Vetting Bureau before the first stage of the procedure is complete. The CFA says it acted on bona fide concerns and its legal obligation under national vetting laws, but the couple argue that the notification is unlawful, invalid and outside statutory authority.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Couple challenge decision to inform Garda vetting bureau of abuse allegations. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• 2024-06-17 Publication

Why: The court heard that in correspondence the CFA said it had made the notification based on bona fide concerns it has about the couple and because of its obligations of national vetting laws. Court evidence reported by CNI

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

Read the original CNI report