Teenage boy whose father was killed by militant group taken into full Tusla care
The Wicklow PeopleAn interim care order for a teenage boy has been extended after the Child and Family Agency (Tusla) told the court that he fled a country in East Africa after being threatened by a militant group, which has killed his father.
Representatives for Tusla appeared before an in-camera family law sitting of Bray District Court seeking a full care order, allowing Tusla to assume parental responsibility in law, meaning the agency can make decisions regarding the child’s care, including medical decisions, without requiring parental consent.
A Tusla social worker told the court that a report submitted was true and accurate, before stating that the youth came to Ireland in early 2025 after he and his family were threatened by Al-Shabaab.
Al-Shabab is a militant Islamist group based in East Africa that has been linked to years of violence and instability in the region.
The group has carried out attacks against civilians and government targets.
The court heard that the youth’s father forced him to leave the area amid fears for his safety following those threats.
His father has since been killed by Al-Shabab.
The teen has since completed his interview with IPAS and is currently awaiting a decision on his asylum status, which can take up to six months.
A representative of Tusla stated that “he is still getting nightmares”, before telling the court that his current accommodation “reminds him of bad memories back in Africa”.
Tusla is currently considering foster options. However, the boy has expressed a desire to have a “full-time family”.
In evidence, the court was told that the youth is in good health but has received some medical treatment. A specialist who works with children from separated homes has been assigned, with counsel for Tusla noting that he may need an interpreter as his English isn’t “perfect yet”.
The court heard that attempts are also being made through the Red Cross family tracing service, which helps reconnect families who have been separated by conflict or displacement.
The service works across different countries to try to locate relatives and restore contact where communication has been lost.
His guardian ad litem testified that “he is an extremely respectful young man”, remarking that his English is improving rapidly and that he is enjoying playing football with friends he has made since being placed.
“He is an excellent footballer,” said the guardian.
Judge David Kennedy granted the full-time care order until the boy turns 18. An aftercare review hearing is scheduled for 2027.